Classical piano masterpieces: legendary performances from around the world you should hear at least once
“Classical piano sounds interesting, but where should I start listening?” Even within classical piano, the music differs greatly by era, style, and composer—and everyone’s tastes vary.
This feature is an introductory guide just for you.
It broadly covers famous and popular pieces from across times and places, so you’re sure to discover a piece you love.
Once you find a favorite, it’s fun to compare works by the same composer or pieces written in the same period.
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Classical piano masterpieces: The world’s must-hear legendary performances (1–10)
VocaliseSergei Rachmaninov
Rachmaninoff’s Vocalise is likely a piece you’ve heard at least once, even if you don’t know its title.
Its endlessly beautiful, crystalline melody can make you feel as if you’re in heaven.
Though it’s a piano piece, it’s also often performed a cappella.
It’s a wonderful, soothing work—please give it a listen.
DedicationRobert Schumann/Franz Liszt
This is Schumann’s Widmung arranged by Franz Liszt.
It’s a brilliant and beautiful piece.
With both charm and sweetness, Widmung conveys the warmth of spring.
Among Liszt’s works, isn’t it one of the gentler, calmer ones? It always leaves me feeling elegant whenever I listen.
Please enjoy it as if you were nobility.
Piano Sonata No. 14 “Moonlight”Ludwig van Beethoven
A sonata in three movements, whose first movement is especially famous under the name “Moonlight.” Many figure skaters have incorporated this piece into their programs, so it may sound familiar to many listeners.
In contrast to the first movement, which evokes sweet, elegant moonlight, the third movement unleashes a fast, passionate melody from the piano.
Classical piano masterpieces: World-renowned performances you should hear at least once (11–20)
Etude Op. 10, No. 3 “Tristesse” (Farewell Song)Frederic Chopin
Among all études (practice pieces), this is one of the most famous and widely loved.
It is frequently featured in commercials and the media, and when talking about Chopin’s masterpieces, its name inevitably comes up.
The sweet melody of the first half is especially well-known, but the middle section presents a contrasting, passionate theme that gives the impression of becoming emotionally charged, as if in the face of parting.
MoonlightClaude Debussy
Clair de Lune, one of Debussy’s greatest masterpieces.
This piece evokes a scene of a moonlit, dreamlike night, but Debussy himself is said to have composed it with the poem “Clair de Lune” from the French poet Verlaine’s collection Fêtes galantes in mind.
Ballade No. 1Frederic Chopin
If I were asked what Chopin’s greatest masterpiece is, I would unhesitatingly point to this piece.
It’s also a famous work whose name spread rapidly in figure skating after Mao Asada used it.
It’s a piece that epitomizes Chopin’s essence—a ballade that feels as if you could grasp his very character just by listening to it.
Nocturne No. 2Frederic Chopin
Meaning “nocturne,” Nocturne is an indispensable element when discussing Chopin, and this particular piece is especially emotional and mysterious.
It is probably the most famous of Chopin’s nocturnes, and listening to it before bed will make you feel just like a princess.