A poignant classic masterpiece. Recommended classical music.
Introducing heartrending classical pieces in one go!
Even when we say “heartrending classical music,” the moods and styles vary widely.
This time, we’ve picked out a range of moving masterpieces—from piano and violin works to miniatures, chamber music, concertos, and orchestral pieces.
Alongside the classics, we’ve lined up a wide selection that includes lesser-known, more obscure works that even avid classical listeners might not immediately recognize.
Whether you’re just getting into classical music or already deeply immersed, there’s plenty to enjoy—so please relax and read to the end!
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A poignant classical masterpiece. Recommended classical music (1–10)
From Violin Concerto, First MovementFelix Mendelssohn
Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto—affectionately known by the nickname “Meso-con”—is such a masterpiece that, together with the violin concertos of Beethoven, Brahms, and Tchaikovsky, it is counted among the “Four Great Violin Concertos.” Mendelssohn’s music possesses a pure, mystical resonance, and his musicality led to his being hailed as a prodigy from a young age.
Although this piece opens with power and intensity, it also features Mendelssohn’s characteristically flowing melodies throughout.
It is a work in which poignancy, beauty, and passion are intricately woven together.
AdagioTomaso Albinoni
Adagio in G Minor by Albinoni, a piece that made a striking impression in the 1963 film The Trial, is said to have been composed by the 20th-century Italian musicologist Remo Giazotto, who discovered fragments of a manuscript by the Baroque composer Tomaso Albinoni and based this work on them.
It preserves hallmarks of Baroque music, such as the interplay of melodies that seem to converse with a bass rhythm reminiscent of a heartbeat.
Its wistful, sentimental melody for organ and strings leaves a particularly strong impression.
Oboe Concerto in D minor, Second MovementAlessandro Marcello
Although now known as an indispensable instrument in the orchestra, the oboe enjoyed its most dazzling prominence as a solo instrument in the 18th century.
This piece, composed by the 18th-century Italian composer Marcello, is considered one of the earliest concertos written for the oboe.
Carried by a softly rendered accompaniment of strings and harpsichord, the oboe weaves a floating melody that leaves a poignant and beguiling impression.
The work also gained attention for its use in the 1971 film The Anonymous Venetian.
Heart-wrenching classical masterpieces. Recommended classical music (11–20)
Adagio for StringsSamuel Barber
Barber is a composer who represents America.
His works include many pieces for orchestra, chamber ensemble, theater, voice, and piano, but this Adagio is said to be his signature work.
It begins with a sobbing-like melody and builds up to an intense climax.
It became famous in the United States after it was used at John F.
Kennedy’s funeral, and it has often been used for obituaries, funerals, and memorial services; however, Barber is said to have complained that he did not write it as a piece for funerals.
Nocturne No. 20 “Posthumous”Frederic Chopin
After Chopin’s death, a nocturne that was first titled “Adagio” was published; today it is known as “Lento con gran espressione” and is often referred to as a “posthumous work.” It is featured in the film The Pianist.
The middle section quotes melodies found in the 1st and 3rd movements of the Piano Concerto No.
2, and it is said to have been composed so that his sister could practice the concerto.
String Quartet No. 1, Movement IIPyotr Tchaikovsky
This masterpiece was completed in 1871 by the Russian composer Pyotr Tchaikovsky.
Its beautiful melodies, inspired by Russian folk songs, deeply move listeners’ hearts.
Showcasing Tchaikovsky’s exceptional talent to the fullest, this work is widely cherished as one of his signature pieces.
Despite its serenity, it conveys rich emotional expression, drawing listeners into a dreamlike world.
It seems that Tchaikovsky’s feelings, as he faced financial hardship at the time of composition, are reflected in the poignant yet beautiful melodies.
This is a highly recommended piece for anyone who wants to fully savor the charm of classical music.
String Quartet No. 2 in D major, Movement IAlexander Porfiryevich Borodin
This is a masterpiece completed in 1881 by Aleksandr Borodin, a 19th-century Russian chemist who was also a composer.
It is said to embody his love for his wife, Ekaterina, and to reflect memories of Heidelberg, Germany.
The work features singing, cantabile melodies that showcase the cello Borodin loved most, and its unique allure lies in a Romantic style rooted in Russian folk music.
It is recommended even for those who are interested in classical music but not yet familiar with it.
Its graceful, deeply expressive melodies will move listeners and resonate in their hearts.