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: World-famous performances you should hear at least once (31–40)
Waltz Op. 64, No. 2Frederic Chopin
In contrast to the Minute (Puppy) Waltz, this waltz is striking for its dark, heavy atmosphere.
Yet even within the darkness, hints of elegance flicker, and to me it evokes an almost nocturne-like mood—an enchanting, dreamlike piece.
Because it doesn’t demand exceptionally high technical skill, it is also a frequently performed classic in concert settings.
Impromptu No. 3, Op. 51Frederic Chopin
Vladimir Davidovich Ashkenazy is a Russian pianist who is also known as a conductor.
He currently holds Icelandic citizenship and resides in Switzerland.
This is a performance of Chopin’s Impromptu No.
3.
The light, nimble fingerwork is delightful to watch.
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I, No. 1 in C majorJ.S.Bach
Bach was a German composer of the 17th century.
Because he came from a musical family, the most famous Bach is called “J.
S.
Bach” or “the Great Bach.” The Great Bach was a major composer who created and developed compositional techniques, and in The Well-Tempered Clavier every piece always consists of a pair: a prelude and a fugue.
Play of WaterMaurice Ravel
Alongside Debussy, Ravel is a composer who represents French Impressionist music.
Although not all of his works can be described as Impressionist in style, Jeux d’eau is one of the emblematic pieces of Impressionist music, and many pianists still include it in their repertoire today.
Piano Concerto in A minor, Op. 54Robert Schumann
Piano Concerto in A minor, Op.
54 is composed by Schumann.
It is a piece that blends intensity with calm.
With Schumann’s characteristic, elegant melodies, it’s a marvelous concerto that could easily captivate your heart.
It has a distinctly different flavor from Tchaikovsky and other famous piano concertos.
Comparing them can be fun, too.
Please give it a listen.
Three GymnopédiesErik Satie
Since Haydn, Classical and Romantic music typically belonged to major or minor keys and progressed dramatically toward a single focal point.
The first music to change this trajectory emerged from France, and the catalyst was this piece by Satie.
Polonaise No. 3 “Military Polonaise”Frederic Chopin
When it comes to Chopin’s polonaises, the first that comes to mind is this “Heroic.” After a long introduction, the music waits in grand, glittering anticipation, as if announcing the hero’s arrival—a piece that even those not fond of classical music have likely heard at least once.
As you can hear, its performance demands advanced technique and expressive power—truly befitting a hero.
Pavane for a Dead PrincessMaurice Ravel
Princess Margarita of Spain, who married the Holy Roman Emperor and died at the young age of 21 in the 17th century.
Ravel was inspired to compose Pavane for a Dead Princess after seeing her portrait at the Louvre.
Although it is often thought to have been written in mourning for the princess, it is actually said to evoke the kind of dance she might have performed as a child.
Ravel himself reportedly called the piece “weak,” yet it has been popular since the time it was composed.
Four Impromptus, D. 935, Op. 142Franz Schubert
Piano Concerto in A minor, Op.
54 is composed by Schumann.
It is a piece that blends intensity with calm.
With Schumann’s characteristic, elegant melodies, it’s a marvelous concerto that could easily captivate your heart.
It has a distinctly different flavor from Tchaikovsky and other famous piano concertos.
Comparing them can be fun, too.
Please give it a listen.
Piano Sonata No. 16 in A minor, D. 845Franz Schubert
Franz Schubert’s Piano Sonata No.
16 in A minor, D.845.
Because it’s in a minor key, it gives a dark impression.
But when you listen, it’s full of variety that makes you wonder, “What’s going to happen next?”—a piece that gets you excited.
It doesn’t end with just a somber A minor mood; it’s a sonata packed with substance and listening pleasure.