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 (21–30)
ToccataSergei Prokofiev
A Russian composer who created a unique musical style that blends modern austerity with traditional classical elements, as well as Russian and European influences.
Although the Toccata is quite distinctive, it is a popular piece that many pianists include in their repertoire.
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.
Classical piano masterpieces: World-famous performances you should hear at least once (31–40)
Five Piano PiecesArnold Schönberg
The person often said to be the first to dismantle the long-standing Western tonal music is the German composer Schoenberg (though some argue it was Hauer).
He created works ranging from atonal music to twelve-tone music, which treats all twelve pitches equally.
This piece is a famous work that served as a bridge from atonality to twelve-tone technique.
Étude Op. 10 No. 4Frederic Chopin
Although this piece bears no specific title among the études, its fame is overwhelming, and it is a celebrated work often used as an assignment in music conservatories.
It was also featured in the drama “Nodame Cantabile,” which likely broadened its recognition even further.
More recently, it has even been included in the rhythm game “Taiko no Tatsujin.” Among the études, it is considered especially difficult to perform, and its fast, passionate melody is nothing short of breathtaking.
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.
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.