It’s so cool if you can play these on the piano! A selection of irresistibly charming masterpieces.
When you think of piano pieces, many people probably picture classical works, right?
But nowadays, not only classical music—J-POP, anime songs, and all kinds of tracks—are performed on the piano, and “I tried playing it” videos are gaining attention on social media and video platforms.
Some of you might be enjoying watching these videos every day, surprised to find, “Wow, this song actually goes really well with the piano!”
So this time, we’ve picked out songs that would look seriously cool if you could play them on the piano!
Alongside timeless classical masterpieces, we’ll also introduce the latest hit songs that sound great on piano.
If you’re thinking, “I want to wow everyone with my piano performance!”, be sure to use this as a reference!
- [Intermediate Level] Cool Piano Pieces You Can Play [Great for Recitals Too]
- [Advanced] Super cool if you can play it! Selection of famous piano pieces
- Piano Masterpieces: Surprisingly Easy Despite Sounding Difficult!? A Curated Selection Perfect for Recitals
- Even beginners can play them easily on the piano! A curated selection of popular and latest J-POP songs.
- [Piano Recital] Recommended for Boys! A Curated Selection of Cool, Impressive, and Popular Pieces
- [Piano × J‑Pop] A curated selection of the coolest new hits and anime songs that’ll look great when you play them
- [For Elementary School Students] Brilliant, Showy Masterpieces That Sound Impressive at Piano Recitals
- [For Piano Recitals] Simple yet Cool Classical Pieces
- [Intermediate Level] A curated selection of piano masterpieces featuring strikingly brilliant melodies!
- Cool jazz piano: from classic favorites to hidden gems.
- [For Advanced Players] A Curated Selection of Classical Masterpieces to Tackle at Piano Recitals
- Masterpieces of classical piano that are too beautiful for words. A gathering of delicate tones that cleanse the soul.
- [Classical Music] All pieces under 3 minutes! A collection of short and cool piano pieces
It’s so cool if you can play these on the piano! A selection of irresistibly charming masterpieces (61–70)
Dragon Quest ‘Overture’sugiyama kouichi
Known as one of Japan’s most iconic pieces of video game music, this work is distinguished by its grand orchestral sound.
It opens with a fanfare, then unfolds into an exhilarating melody.
The tune, which heralds the start of an adventure, has the power to stir the listener’s heart.
It often transcends the realm of game music to be performed in various settings, and it was even used at the opening ceremony of the Tokyo 2021 Olympics.
It’s a piece that not only game fans will enjoy but also one that invites a challenge on the piano.
Though short, its storytelling structure inspires a growing sense of anticipation for a new adventure every time you play it.
Shut up.Ado
A bass line like this would be played on electric bass as straight eighth notes on the same pitch, but on piano, due to its structural limitations, you typically alternate with the note an octave above.
That actually matches perfectly with the powerful melody in the chorus! For both the performer and the listener, this is really the highlight.
By striking the keys forcefully with both hands, you can faithfully carry over the original song’s intensity and, quite literally, let a loud sound roar.
Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op. 43, Variation 18: Andante cantabileSergei Rachmaninov
Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op.
43 is a work composed in the form of a piano concerto.
Completed by Sergei Rachmaninoff in 1934, it premiered on November 7 of the same year.
Based on the theme of No.
24 from Niccolò Paganini’s 24 Caprices, it unfolds in 24 variations.
Among them, the 18th variation is especially popular for its graceful and captivating melody and harmony, and it is frequently performed as a piano solo as well.
Aim to play it gently yet romantically, consciously bringing out the melodic line within the chords.
Final Fantasy X “To Zanarkand” (Piano Collections ver.)Uematsu Nobuo
The bittersweet melody, marked by its beautiful theme, is pleasing to the ear yet leaves a deep afterglow.
Symbolizing the fictional city that serves as the story’s setting, this piece delicately conveys the protagonist’s feelings for their hometown and the struggles of characters swept along by fate.
Included on the album “Piano Collections FINAL FANTASY X,” released in July 2004, it uses the expressive power of the piano to further enhance its narrative quality.
Transcending the bounds of video game music, it has become a popular piece performed in many contexts, continuing to captivate listeners with its timeless appeal.
Even those just beginning the piano can express profound emotion with this piece by carefully practicing its beautiful melodic line.
KICK BACKYonezu Kenshi
Written as the opening theme for the TV anime Chainsaw Man, this piece fuses an energetic rock sound with elements of drum and bass.
Its structure is notable for frequent key changes, delivering bold musical shifts that are strikingly engaging.
The lyrics carry deep messages, including a desire for self-realization, a pursuit of happiness, and an openness to life’s uncertainties.
Since its digital release in October 2022, it has garnered high praise both in Japan and abroad, earning RIAA Gold certification and widespread attention.
It’s highly recommended for fans of Kenshi Yonezu’s distinctive worldview and for those looking to take on a powerful song.
Piano Sonata No. 8 “Pathétique,” Second MovementLudwig van Beethoven
Characterized by a gentle, song-like melody, this piece unfolds at a relaxed tempo in A-flat major and 2/4 time.
Structured in ternary form, it draws out a lyrical charm through the recurring, simple yet emotionally rich main theme.
Beyond its evocative use in the film “Immortal Beloved,” its melody is also quoted in Billy Joel’s “This Night,” reflecting a crossover with pop music.
While expressive and richly nuanced, the work is not overly demanding technically, making it suitable even for upper elementary school recital programs.
Its calm atmosphere belies its musical depth, making it an ideal choice for those who wish to study music earnestly.
Etude Collection (Studies) No. 4, Op. 10-4 in C-sharp minorFrederic Chopin
A fiercely passionate piece that grips the listener’s heart and won’t let go.
Its rapid sixteenth-note passages and continuous intricate figures in both hands create an impact like a storm.
Composed in August 1832, this work is acclaimed as having artistic value that far surpasses a mere study.
It is recommended not only for those aiming to improve their piano technique, but also for anyone who loves passionate music.
While the performance demands advanced technique, the sense of accomplishment is all the greater.
If you want to experience the appeal of classical music, why not give it a try?