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, Cleansing Tones (41–50)
Songs Without Words, Book I, Op. 19: No. 1 “Sweet Remembrance”Felix Mendelssohn
Sweet Remembrance, with its smoothly flowing sixteenth-note accompaniment and graceful, lyrical melody, is one of the pieces from Mendelssohn’s famous piano collection Songs Without Words.
It may be less well-known than something like the celebrated Spring Song, but it highlights his outstanding gift for melody.
To bring out the piece’s delicate theme, keep the sixteenth-note accompaniment light, and play the melody with a lifted finger position, paying close attention to tone color.
Using generous pedal to create a rich resonance will further enhance the beauty of your performance.
Serenade, No. 4 from SchwanengesangFranz Schubert
A song to listen to when you’re feeling depressed or have hit a wall.
In work, school, family—life confronts us with all kinds of problems.
We have to take steps to solve them, but more than anything our hearts feel squeezed tight.
In the rush, without a moment to catch our breath, we suddenly realize our energy has been drained.
At times like that, the song’s wistful, sorrowful melody gives us a reason to pause and rest.
Thinking things through is necessary.
But for now, why not surrender yourself to the world of this song and find some calm?
Barcarolle in F-sharp major, Op. 60Frederic Chopin
A “barcarolle” is a piece modeled after the songs sung on Venetian gondolas; for example, Mendelssohn’s “Songs Without Words” includes the well-known “Venetian Boat Song.” Many prominent classical composers wrote their own barcarolles, and Frédéric Chopin’s Barcarolle is also very famous—a solo piano work composed late in his life.
While the defining characteristic of a barcarolle is often a gently rocking 6/8 meter, Chopin’s Barcarolle is in a quadruple-based 12/8, cast in ternary form, and is an expansive work running over nine minutes.
It shares a kindred atmosphere with the Nocturne No.
5, written in the same key of F-sharp major.
Its distinctive left-hand accompaniment seems to capture the irregular motion of a gondola, while the right-hand melody—at times delicate, at times passionate—is truly beautiful.
At the same time, the piece’s dramatic quality irresistibly invites us to imagine what thoughts the late Chopin might have had as he composed it.
Etude Op. 2 No. 1Alexander Scriabin
Scriabin’s music, with its distinctive worldview, is strongly influenced by Chopin.
This piece in particular highlights those elements, giving the impression of a dimly lit passion sealed within the music.
Its approachable level of difficulty also makes it a popular choice for performances and a great introduction to Scriabin.
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?
12 Songs, Op. 21 No. 7: ‘It Is Beautiful Here’Sergei Rachmaninov
The original piece is a song by the great Russian composer Sergei Rachmaninoff, dedicated to his wife, Natasha.
It is a very beautiful work that blends a romantic atmosphere with a touch of melancholy.
Though simple, its melody is moving enough to bring you to tears, making it perfect as an encore piece.
There are also brilliant arrangements of this piece by artists such as E.
Wild.
Please give it a try.
OblivionAstor Piazzolla
Piazzolla is a distinctive composer who pursued his own path by fusing classical music and jazz.
“Oblivion,” second in fame only to “Libertango,” means “oblivion” or “forgetfulness.” It is a masterpiece that compresses dramatic, richly expressive music into a short span.