RAG MusicPiano
A web magazine to help you enjoy the piano even more

Masterpieces of classical piano that are too beautiful for words. A gathering of delicate tones that cleanse the soul.

The piano is a captivating instrument that transforms into a variety of expressions depending on the performer and the manner of interpretation.

Its delicate yet dynamic grace and its ineffable depth—paired with a vast palette of tones and rich resonance—are said to rival an entire orchestra with a single instrument.

This time, from among works that allow you to fully savor the piano’s timbre, we have selected pieces with a focus on “beauty.”

Whether you love to play the piano or to listen to it, we hope you will immerse yourself in its allure, savoring each delicate note one by one.

Masterpieces of Classical Piano That Are Too Beautiful: A Gathering of Delicate, Soul-Cleansing Tones (21–30)

Nocturne No. 8 in D-flat major, Op. 27 No. 2Frederic Chopin

Yundi Li – Frederic Chopin Nocturne Des-Dur Op. 27 Nr. 2 2010
Nocturne No. 8 in D-flat major, Op. 27 No. 2Frederic Chopin

A piano piece composed in 1836 by Chopin, a representative composer of the Romantic era.

It is one of his most popular works, characterized by a structure that evolves from a single melody.

The main theme in the right hand overlays the left hand’s broken-chord harmonies, creating a delicate, melancholic atmosphere.

It builds beautifully toward a climax and concludes with ornamentation quintessentially Chopin.

Influences of Polish folk music can also be felt, and the piece portrays a romantic vision of the night.

Fully showcasing the piano’s appeal, it is recommended not only for pianists but also for anyone who enjoys listening to classical music.

hibari (skylark)Glinka=Balakirev

Balakirev, a member of the “Mighty Handful,” wrote accessible works with a strong consciousness of Russian folk elements.

His representative piece “The Lark,” second only to the fiendishly difficult “Islamey,” was influenced by Chopin and Liszt—whom Balakirev deeply admired—and is a masterpiece with a melancholic atmosphere.

Masterpieces of Classical Piano That Are Too Beautiful: A Gathering of Delicate, Soul-Cleansing Tones (31–40)

“Dreams” from “Eight Concert Etudes”Nikolai Kapustin

Kapustin: Eight Concert Etudes, Op. 40-2 “Dream”
"Dreams" from "Eight Concert Etudes"Nikolai Kapustin

Kapustin fuses jazz and classical music, forging a unique path distinct from Piazzolla.

Dream is a somewhat subdued piece, yet it is a highly demanding work with great performance impact.

The intricate combinations of notes in the right hand shape the melody and create a distinctive sense of weightless suspension.

Goldberg Variations, BWV 988J.S.Bach

Lang Lang – Bach: Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Aria
Goldberg Variations, BWV 988J.S.Bach

J.S.

Bach is a great German composer who has been loved by many people for a long time—one of those famous composers everyone knows.

He had exceptional talent for composing violin and piano sonatas, and he left behind many masterpieces.

I would love to introduce one of Bach’s piano sonatas… but this time, I’d like to introduce a set of variations written specifically for the harpsichord: the Goldberg Variations, BWV 988.

Although it is often performed on the piano, the colors of the piece change greatly depending on the performer.

Arabesque in C major, Op. 18Robert Schumann

Schumann – Arabesque in C major, Op.18 – pianomaedaful
Arabesque in C major, Op. 18Robert Schumann

Robert Schumann’s great masterpiece, Arabesque in C major, Op.

18.

The term “arabesque” means Arabic-style, and true to its name, an Arabian-sounding melody appears.

Although the difficulty of this piece varies depending on hand size, it can be performed without issue by, for example, sharing voices between both hands.

Its dotted-rhythm melody flows lightly yet remains delicate and romantic.

The piece is divided into six sections, presenting various scenes while returning to the opening theme.

Be sure to play it with an image of an Arabic style in mind.

Four Impromptus, Op. 90 No. 3Franz Schubert

Schubert’s masterpiece, whose limpid tone and delicate expression touch the heart.

Composed in 1827, No.

3 from Four Impromptus, Op.

90, is known as a work from Schubert’s mature period.

Its long melody flows without interruption, evoking a prayer-like serenity.

Within the sonorities produced by a single piano lies Schubert’s rich sensitivity and profound emotion.

The beautifully cleansing melody is perfect for anyone wishing to step away from the bustle of daily life and spend a tranquil moment.

On a long autumn night, why not listen at a leisurely pace?

Six Pieces, Op. 51: No. 6, “Valse Sentimentale”Pyotr Tchaikovsky

The sixth piece from Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s set of six piano pieces, “Six Pieces, Op.

51,” by the composer well known for the three great ballet scores including Swan Lake.

In addition to its achingly beautiful melody that perfectly suits the title “Valse Sentimentale,” it also contains bright, light phrases that feel like a joyful waltz, making it a recommended study piece for developing expressiveness.

Since the left hand involves leaps, be sure to practice thoroughly during hands-separate practice so you can firmly grasp the chords.