Recommended classical masterpieces for BGM. Soothing classical music.
Classical music has been used in many settings: as church music for religious services, live performances at aristocratic banquets, and as operatic incidental music depicting beautiful landscapes and people.
Even with pieces I already know, when I revisit them after learning their background, I often feel they were originally close in character to background music.
This time, I’ve gathered classical masterpieces that are perfect as BGM for everyday relaxation, commuting to work or school, and lunchtime or dinnertime.
You can rediscover world-famous pieces everyone knows, as well as lesser-known hidden gems—there’s a wide variety to choose from.
I hope you find a new favorite track.
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Recommended classical masterpieces for BGM: Soothing classical music (11–20)
Variation 18 from Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini for Piano and OrchestraSergei Rachmaninov
It’s a masterpiece composed for piano and orchestra.
Based on Niccolò Paganini’s 24 Caprices, it unfolds in 24 variations.
In particular, the 18th variation is a highly popular piece that captivates many listeners with its graceful, enchanting melody and harmony.
Rachmaninoff completed the work in just seven weeks during the summer of 1934 at his home in Switzerland.
It premiered in November 1934 with the Philadelphia Orchestra, and it’s said he drank crème de menthe before the performance to calm his nerves.
This piece is recommended for those who want to play gently yet romantically, while consciously bringing out the melodic line within the chords.
The Blue DanubeJohann Strauss II
When it comes to Viennese waltzes, this is the piece that inevitably comes to mind.
It’s a waltz by Johann Strauss II, a composer who was active mainly in Vienna, Austria.
Despite its elegance, it was originally written as a male chorus piece.
It came to be loved as Austria’s “second national anthem” after the country’s defeat in the Austro-Prussian War of 1866, when its cheerful and delightful lyrics encouraged a dispirited public.
This piece also works wonderfully at ice rinks, among other places.
GavotteFrançois-Joseph Gossec
Originally a graceful dance that is also performed in ballet music, the gavotte began as a kind of folk dance by rural peasants from regions of France.
Its distinctive character, in a lively 4/4 or 2/2 meter yet with an air of refinement, may stem from its role as a French court dance from the 16th to the 18th centuries.
The most famous piece is a short work composed by François-Joseph Gossec.
With its slightly comical flavor, it could make charming background music for a young child’s birthday party.
Pavane for a Newborn PrincessCharles-Henry
This is a solo piano piece that exudes an elegant atmosphere.
Its warm, tender melody gently enfolds the listener, like cradling a newborn princess, and sinks deep into the heart.
Though short, it stands out with a simple, refined beauty that is sure to soothe those who hear it.
Included in the French contemporary piano collection “Cahier de Lemoine 2,” it is one of the most popular pieces among the twenty works featured.
Showcasing Charles-Henri’s delicate sensibility, this piece is perfect for unhurried mornings or relaxing evenings.
It’s an ideal choice when you want to calm your mind or settle into a peaceful mood.
Petite Suite I. En bateauClaude Debussy
This piece is characterized by an elegant melody that evokes the gentle sway of calm waves.
Though an early work by Debussy, it already reveals elements of Impressionist music, making it a beautiful composition.
The image of a small boat drifting on the water’s surface is deftly portrayed through delicate piano touch and a relaxed rhythm, lulling the listener into a dreamlike state.
Published in 1889, the work was originally composed for piano four hands, but was later orchestrated, allowing it to be enjoyed in a broader range of settings.
It’s perfect for a relaxing summer afternoon or whenever you want to calm your mind.
Wrapped in its unhurried atmosphere, you’re sure to enjoy a soothing time.
Beautiful RosemaryFritz Kreisler
The light, charming melody reminiscent of a Viennese ball is truly striking.
“Schön Rosmarin,” composed by the renowned Austrian violinist Fritz Kreisler, is a short piece for violin and piano that seems to paint a delicate flower in music.
Its springy, waltz-like tone naturally brightens the listener’s mood.
The score was published in 1910, and Kreisler himself recorded it in December 1912.
As one of a trilogy alongside “Liebesfreud” (Love’s Joy) and “Liebesleid” (Love’s Sorrow), it’s highly recommended to listen to them together.
It is also frequently used as background music in commercials and visual works, so do check it out as a refreshing interlude during tasks or as gentle study BGM.
Recommended classical masterpieces for background music: soothing classical music (21–30)
Suite bergamasque, No. 3: Clair de LuneClaude Debussy
Among Claude Debussy’s works, the Suite bergamasque is known for its accessible, familiar character.
One of its movements is especially memorable for its gentle, beautiful melody that seems to depict a moon faintly floating in the night sky.
It’s a dreamy, exquisite piece that unfolds a mysterious scene of the moon suspended in a quiet night.
Published in a revised edition in 1905, this piece has been featured not only in classical concerts but also frequently in films and commercials.
Its mystical atmosphere makes it perfect for a calm autumn night—highly recommended for anyone who wants to spend a leisurely, unhurried time.