Classical masterpieces. Recommended classical music.
Classical music created by various musicians over a long history.
From pieces whose beautiful melodies bring peace of mind to those whose grandeur overwhelms you, the range is truly diverse.
With so much out there, many people may feel, “I want to listen, but I don’t know where to start.”
For you, we’ve picked out some recommendations to get you started—“Begin with these!”
Please take a moment to enjoy the world of classical music that continues to be loved across the ages.
- [Orchestra] Introducing famous and popular pieces
- Cool classical masterpieces. Recommended classical music.
- Mozart: An Introduction to His Signature and Popular Works
- Classical Masterpieces: Recommended Works You Should Hear at Least Once
- Debussy’s masterpiece. Popular classical music.
- Timelessly beautiful classical masterpieces. Recommended classical music.
- Brahms's masterpieces. Popular classical music.
- Classical music by Japanese composers. Recommended classical music.
- [Violin] A curated selection of beloved classic masterpieces and popular pieces that continue to be cherished across eras
- [Masterpiece Classics] A special showcase of gem-like masterpieces so beautiful they’ll move you to tears
- A poignant classic masterpiece. Recommended classical music.
- [François Couperin] Introducing famous and popular pieces by the composer who loved the harpsichord
- Classic masterpieces recommended for women
Classical masterpieces. Recommended classical music.
Eight Concert Etudes, Op. 40 No. 8: FinaleNikolay Kapustin
The Flight of the BumblebeeRimsky-Korsakov-Cziffra
Classical masterpieces. Recommended classical music (41–50)
Piano Sonata No. 21 in B-flat major, D 960 — Movement III: Allegro vivace con delicatezzaFranz Schubert
A masterpiece whose jewel-like melodies set the heart free.
Completed in September 1828, this work is especially captivating in its third movement, where a light touch is paired with delicate structural nuance.
An eight-bar theme is developed with finesse, and through successive modulations the music moves from a bright B-flat major to its parallel key, B-flat minor, leaving a striking impression of richly colored emotion.
The shading of the melody—born of its distinctive rhythmic pulse and harmonic progressions—deeply moves the listener.
Throughout, Franz Schubert’s inventive modulation techniques and masterful handling of rhythm shine.
This piece is highly recommended for those seeking the deeper flavors of classical music, and for anyone captivated by the structural beauty of piano repertoire.
Piano Quintet in A major, Op. 114, D. 667 “Trout” — IV. Theme and Variations: AndantinoFranz Schubert
A chamber music masterpiece performed by the uniquely scored ensemble of piano, violin, viola, cello, and double bass.
Composed in 1819 at the request of a wealthy local mining engineer, this work captivates with its bright, sprightly melodies and colorful variations.
In five variations, it vividly depicts a tale of a trout swimming in a clear stream and the crafty fisherman trying to catch it.
Conversational interplay that deftly draws out each instrument’s character, along with tonal shifts from minor to major, grips the listener’s heart.
A familiar classic also known from JR East’s Joban Line Iwaki Station departure melody and TV Asahi’s “Matsuko & Ariyoshi’s Angry New Party.” A piece I can wholeheartedly recommend to anyone interested in chamber music or piano music.
Symphony No. 9 in D minor, Op. 125 “Choral,” from the 4th movement: “Ode to Joy”Ludwig van Beethoven
An immortal masterpiece woven by a grand orchestra and chorus.
Ludwig van Beethoven completed it over the course of about nine years while battling his lost hearing.
At its premiere in May 1824, the audience erupted in thunderous applause, but the already deaf Beethoven did not notice until a singer turned him around—an episode that has been passed down as deeply moving.
In Japan, this work is also known for being performed nationwide at the end of the year.
It is a piece that resonates with the heart, one that sends off life’s farewells not only with sorrow, but with gratitude for the path traveled and with hope.
Nocturne No. 2Frederic Chopin
This piano piece features a gently flowing, beautiful melody and delicate ornaments that seep into the heart along with the stillness of the night.
Composed by Chopin in 1831, it masterfully captures dreamlike, fantastical scenes and inner emotions.
The world woven by the elegant right-hand melody and the harmoniously balanced left-hand accompaniment evokes the beauty of an Italian opera’s singing voice.
It has also been widely used in media—for example, it was arranged as the theme song “To Love Again” in the 1956 American film The Eddy Duchin Story, and it appears in the anime ClassicaLoid.
It’s a perfect piece for quiet concentration or calming the mind, making it an ideal, soothing classic to accompany studying or reading.
Waltz of the FlowersPyotr Tchaikovsky
The pleasant melody woven by the graceful waltz rhythm evokes a sense of unhurried time.
Its triple meter and the delicate harmonies of strings and woodwinds create an exquisite balance that boosts concentration without causing stress.
Premiered in Saint Petersburg in December 1892, the piece has been featured widely in various media since its use in Disney’s Fantasia and is well loved as a calming work.
It’s recommended for times when you want to focus in a quiet setting—studying, reading, or desk work.
Why not spend an intellectually enriching, relaxing time with this piece that showcases Tchaikovsky’s masterful compositional technique?