[Classical] Introducing Recommended Moving/Touching Pieces
Music is truly wonderful—some people may even say a single song saved their life.
Among such music, there are pieces with lyrics and pieces without.
In this article, we introduce moving works from the world of classical music, where pieces without lyrics are common.
There are things you can feel precisely because there are no words—only melody and resonance—and at times they can move you deeply.
Whether you’re a classical music fan or someone who doesn’t often have the chance to listen to it, we hope this article helps you savor the charm of classical music.
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[Classical] Introducing 10 Moving, Recommended Pieces (1–10)
NocturneFrederic Chopin
A collection of solo piano pieces composed by Frédéric Chopin from the age of 20 through his later years.
Consisting of 21 pieces, this set portrays the quiet of the night and introspection, and at times complex emotions such as sorrow and joy.
Among them, No.
2 is a popular piece widely loved not only by classical music fans but also by the general public.
It is characterized by lyrical, romantic melodies, fresh harmonies, and a free-spirited approach, earning high acclaim within piano music.
In addition, No.
20 is well known for its use in the film The Pianist.
Alongside these two famous works, all the other pieces are also deeply moving and beautiful, so be sure to find your favorite among the 21.
Piano Sonata No. 8 in C minor, Op. 13 “Pathétique,” II. movementLudwig van Beethoven
Among the piano sonatas composed by Ludwig van Beethoven, a leading figure of the German Classical school, the “Pathétique” stands alongside the “Moonlight” and “Appassionata” as one of his most celebrated works.
Composed between 1798 and 1799, it was highly acclaimed from the time of its publication and became a breakthrough piece that helped establish Beethoven’s reputation as a composer.
Its second movement, frequently arranged and featured in television programs and commercials, is widely beloved.
The movement’s serene yet somehow wistful sonorities, along with the strikingly different atmosphere introduced in the middle section after the main theme, make it a remarkably beautiful composition.
Meditation from ThaïsJules Massenet
A famous intermezzo from an opera composed by Jules Massenet in 1894.
Noted for its beautifully poignant violin melody, the piece depicts the spiritual awakening of the title character.
Even apart from the opera’s narrative, its captivating tune has won the hearts of many and has been arranged for a variety of instruments.
Massenet himself arranged it as an “Ave Maria” for voice and keyboard.
In 1971, Frederick Ashton also created a ballet based on it.
With its soothing, healing atmosphere, this piece is perfect for moments of quiet reflection.
[Classical] Introducing 11–20 of the most moving recommended pieces
Canon and Gigue in D major for Three Violins and Basso ContinuoJohann Pachelbel
This work, which could be called a jewel of Baroque music, is known as Pachelbel’s Canon.
Showcasing Johann Pachelbel’s delicate sensibility, it’s a piece that is friendly even to classical music beginners.
The beautiful melodies woven by three violins seep into the heart like the murmuring of a brook.
In the 1970s, when it was broadcast by a San Francisco radio station, it reportedly received a flood of listener requests.
It’s well known as a wedding standard, but it’s also recommended for a relaxing listen on a quiet night.
It is performed in orchestral arrangements as well as in piano-and-cello duos, and in any instrumentation it remains a calming, beautiful work.
Vocalise, Op. 34 No. 14Sergei Rachmaninov
Is there any piece whose wordless melody can move the heart this deeply? Published in 1915, this work is the final song in Sergei Rachmaninoff’s collection of songs.
As the composer himself remarked, “the voice alone can convey sufficient emotion,” and its beautiful melody—sung on a single vowel—resonates profoundly with listeners.
Over roughly six minutes, the wistful tune seems to drift between hope and despair, and it has been beloved by a wide audience, even appearing in films and television.
Numerous arrangements exist, and whichever version you hear, its beauty seeps into the soul—so do try listening to performances on other instruments as well.
Intermezzo from the opera Cavalleria RusticanaPietro Mascagni
From Pietro Mascagni’s masterpiece Cavalleria rusticana emerged a serene orchestral piece.
Premiered in Rome in May 1890, this work conveys a beautiful quietude within a tale of love and revenge set in a Sicilian village.
It is marked by elegant, lyrical melodies and incorporates motifs of religious hymns, evoking deep emotion.
It was also used in the climactic scene of the film The Godfather Part III, lending dramatic effect to the entire work.
If you wish to leave a deep afterglow in your heart or spend a quiet moment, why not give it a listen?
Suite bergamasque, No. 3: Clair de LuneClaude Debussy
Among Claude Debussy’s works, the Suite bergamasque is known for its accessible, familiar charm.
Its third piece, Clair de Lune, is a dreamy and beautiful work that conjures a vision of a softly glowing moon suspended in the quiet night sky and the mysterious space bathed in its light.
Listening while gazing at the moon on a tranquil night may help you feel the atmosphere of the piece even more deeply.
Although not especially difficult technically to perform, expressing the world of the music is an enormous challenge.
It’s also recommended to look at photos of moonlit landscapes and expand your concrete imagery as you play.