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.
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Masterpieces of Classical Piano That Are Too Beautiful: A Gathering of Delicate, Soul-Cleansing Tones (31–40)
Polonaise No. 7, Op. 61 “Polonaise-Fantasy”Frederic Chopin
Frédéric Chopin, a composer born in Poland.
He displayed musical talent from an early age and produced his first work at the age of seven.
This piece is one of the masterpieces written in his final years.
While it incorporates the rhythm of the polonaise, it is characterized by a free form and fantastical elements.
It begins with unstable chords; although the polonaise rhythm briefly surfaces along the way, the fantastical elements quickly take the lead.
It seems to symbolize Chopin’s inner conflicts and flow of emotion, leaving an impression of a mood that blends melancholy and exaltation.
Highly recommended for those who want to savor the piano’s delicate timbre.
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.
Etude Op. 25 No. 1 “Aeolian Harp”Frederic Chopin
It became affectionately known by this nickname after Chopin played the piece at Schumann’s home, where Schumann remarked that it made him think of an “Aeolian harp.” An Aeolian harp is a stringed instrument with multiple strings stretched over a box-like wooden frame.
It produces sound when played by the natural wind; depending on the wind’s strength, direction, and force, different strings vibrate, creating a variety of timbres.
The subtle changes in the nuance of the arpeggiated figures played by both hands evoke precisely this Aeolian harp, don’t they?
Piano Sonata “On the Street, October 1, 1905”Leoš Janaček
Janáček is a very unusual composer from the Czech lands.
The atmosphere of this piece—less melancholic than bordering on a kind of nihilism—seems to reflect his anger over the incident at the time when protesters clashed with the army.
Argentine Dance No. 2A.E.Ginastera
Ginastera, a native of Buenos Aires, Argentina, is known for writing accessible music.
His Argentine Dances No.
2 has a very melancholic atmosphere, and its score is characterized by being simple and easy to read.
Masterpieces of Classical Piano That Are Too Beautiful: A Gathering of Delicate, Cleansing Tones (41–50)
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.
5 Pieces (Suite of Trees), Op. 75: No. 1, When the Rowans BloomJean Sibelius
The first piece from Finnish composer Jean Sibelius’s Five Pieces (Trees), Op.
75.
It features a light, delicate melody that evokes small, charming blossoms.
The “pihlaja” in the title is known in Finland as the “tree of God,” and it’s said to appear on Moomin plates featuring the Nordic-born characters.
In a piece that depicts such flowers, it’s crucial to align the grains of sound and play with a delicate touch.
Try practicing by isolating sections and changing the rhythms, and be sure to listen closely to the sounds you produce as you practice.