Cool classical masterpieces. Recommended classical music.
A showcase of awesome classical masterpieces, all in one place!
From super-cool staples to slightly lesser-known, stylish pieces, we’ve picked a wide range.
We’re featuring not only piano solo works from the classics to more recent pieces, but also orchestral masterpieces performed by large ensembles.
We’ve selected classical works that are thrilling to listen to and make performances look cool too—from film-score-like pieces and RPG battle-scene vibes to avant-garde sounds reminiscent of progressive rock!
Be sure to read to the end!
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Cool classical masterpieces. Recommended classical music (11–20)
Saxophone Concerto “Cyber-bird” Op. 59 (1994) I – Bird of ColorsYoshimatsu Takashi
Composed in 1994 by Takashi Yoshimatsu, one of Japan’s leading contemporary composers, this concerto is an innovative work inspired by the image of a bird flying through cyberspace.
Its captivating pairing of alto saxophone and orchestra expresses, across its three movements, vivid colors, profound sorrow, and the lightness of riding the wind.
The piece also reflects Yoshimatsu’s personal experiences—he continued composing at a hospital bedside during nights of round-the-clock care for his sister, who passed away after saying, “If I’m reborn, I want to be a bird.” Woven into the music are the transience of life and the subtleties of emotion.
It is highly recommended for those seeking fresh air in classical music, as well as fans of jazz and progressive rock.
Rhapsody in BlueGeorge Gershwin
Highly acclaimed as “symphonic jazz,” a fusion of jazz and classical music, it catapulted Gershwin’s name to worldwide fame.
Legend has it that he suddenly conceived the idea for this rhapsody on a train bound for Boston, inspired by the rhythm of the rails; you can practically picture a steam locomotive about to depart, then gradually accelerating and surging forward.
From the orchestra’s sprightly, jazz-like rhythms and the kaleidoscope of timbres produced by various wind techniques to the near-improvisational piano cadenza, it’s a piece overflowing with points of interest!
Prelude from Eight Concert EtudesNikolai Kapustin
Nikolai Kapustin, who was active from the late 20th century to the early 21st century, is a composer known for his unique style that fuses classical music and jazz.
Born in 1937, Kapustin studied at the Moscow Conservatory and then began his career as a jazz pianist.
This work is characterized by a rhythmic style influenced by Latin music, featuring dazzling sixteenth-note passages that unfold between both hands on the piano.
Incorporating the improvisational spirit of jazz within the strict framework of classical music, this piece is recommended for those seeking energetic and dynamic music.
Symphony No. 5Pyotr Tchaikovsky
This symphony, composed in 1888 by the famous Russian composer Tchaikovsky, is said to be one of his three great late symphonies.
Created during his mature period, the piece is often described as having “fate” as its central theme, and the fourth movement in the video depicts a triumph over fate.
It’s a work with a commanding, dignified presence.
When you listen with some understanding of the composer and the era, classical music can reveal a different kind of appeal.
I also recommend exploring other pieces by the same composer if you liked this one, or listening to performances by the same musicians.
“Mambo” from the musical West Side StoryLeonard Bernstein
A masterpiece by Leonard Bernstein, one of the most representative American musicians of the 20th century.
Premiered in 1957, this piece from the musical West Side Story is famous as a dance number, and its captivating blend of Latin music and jazz, along with its skillful use of the tritone interval, expresses the work’s inner conflict and tension.
It symbolizes youthful energy and social confrontation, with a dynamic musicality that leaves a strong impression.
Recommended not only for classical music fans but also for those interested in musicals and film scores.
‘Sabre Dance’ from the ballet GayaneKhachaturian
This is a masterpiece created by Aram Khachaturian, one of the defining composers of the 20th century.
Featuring brilliant melodies infused with Armenian folk music and energetic rhythms, it captivates listeners.
The piece was born as part of the ballet Gayane, completed in 1942.
While reflecting the social context of its time, it achieves a timeless appeal.
In 1948, it became a jukebox hit in the United States.
Even those unfamiliar with classical music are sure to be drawn in by its powerful performance.
Cool classic masterpieces. Recommended classical music (21–30)
Waltz from the suite “Masquerade”Aram Khachaturian
Incidental music based on the play Masquerade by the great Russian writer Mikhail Lermontov.
After the premiere, Khachaturian himself arranged it into an orchestral suite of five pieces: Waltz, Nocturne, Mazurka, Romance, and Galop.
Masquerade is set in the aristocratic society of late Imperial Russia and tells the story of a marital scandal that unfolds after a visit to a masquerade ball.
This piece is the waltz that Nina, the protagonist’s wife, danced for the last time in her life.
It vividly conveys both the splendor and the mysterious, shadowy atmosphere of the masquerade.