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 would be so cool to play on the piano! A selection of irresistibly charming masterpieces (1–10)
Fantaisie-ImpromptuFrederic Chopin
Of Frédéric Chopin’s four impromptus, representing the Romantic era, the first one composed is the most famous: the Fantaisie-Impromptu.
Many listeners can recognize the piece the moment the first octave sounds.
Because the left hand divides each beat into six and the right hand into eight, it can be difficult at first to get the feel for playing with both hands together.
However, with continued practice, you’ll naturally learn to align the downbeats.
Keep practicing patiently!
lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE
This is a song by Mrs.
GREEN APPLE that portrays the uncertainty of life and the emotions of transitional periods.
Chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “Oblivion Battery,” it symbolically captures the complex feelings and growth of adolescence, resonating deeply with listeners.
Its energetic, refreshing rock sound is marked by a bright, catchy melody.
The lyrics focus on self-acceptance and growth, conveying the importance of loving oneself while acknowledging one’s imperfections.
Performing it at a recital might provide a fresh opportunity to rediscover the value of taking on challenges.
SummerHisaishi Joe
A famous piece everyone’s heard at least once: Joe Hisaishi’s “Summer.” Joe Hisaishi is a renowned composer who has created music for many Studio Ghibli films.
As the title suggests, “Summer” is a pleasant piece that evokes a refreshing summer day.
It was released in 1999 as the theme song for director Takeshi Kitano’s film “Kikujiro.” Since then, it has been used in numerous commercials and remains a familiar classic you still hear unexpectedly from time to time.
Enjoy performing it while savoring the dynamics and flowing tone.
Racing into the NightYOASOBI
The iconic hit Yoru ni Kakeru by the musical duo YOASOBI, consisting of Ayase and ikura, became an instant sensation upon its 2019 release.
It not only shot to the top of music charts, but its YouTube views have surpassed 200 million.
The song is loved by listeners across a wide range of ages.
Its distinctive rhythm and catchy lyrics and melody really stick in your head.
Although the fast tempo makes it a challenging piece, once you master it, you’re sure to feel an exhilarating sense of satisfaction!
Howl’s Moving Castle: Merry-Go-Round of LifeHisaishi Joe
Let me introduce the main theme from the masterpiece film Howl’s Moving Castle.
Its beautiful melody, which captures the film’s fantastical world, leaves a strong impression, and performance videos on social media are popular as well.
The piece is characterized by a waltz rhythm, so the key is to play it in triple meter.
Until you’re comfortable with the tempo, it’s best to practice slowly and gradually speed up.
The work skillfully conveys the characters’ emotions and drama through music, resonating deeply with listeners.
Released alongside the film in November 2004, it’s a song loved around the world.
It’s a piece that can be enjoyed by a wide range of players, from piano beginners to advanced musicians.
Grandes études de Paganini No. 3 “La Campanella”Franz Liszt
When it comes to famous piano pieces by the Hungarian composer Franz Liszt, “La Campanella” immediately comes to mind! It’s also well known through performances by Ingrid Fujiko Hemming.
The title means “The Little Bell,” and it’s a masterpiece that many classical pianists dream of playing at least once.
The famous opening phrase features very wide leaps and demands precise touch.
Although it’s an extremely difficult piece, with persistent practice you can gradually bring it together.
Why not build your skills steadily and patiently, and master this challenging work?
Heroic Polonaise in A-flat major, Op. 53Frederic Chopin
Among Frédéric Chopin’s most famous works is the Polonaise in A-flat major, Op.
53 (“Heroic”).
This piano masterpiece combines an impressive, dazzling melody and a bright, liberating atmosphere—like a vista suddenly opening before you—with intricate, refined musicality.
Because it features many repeated chords and octaves, it’s important to keep the melodic line in mind and avoid letting the performance rely on sheer force alone.
Be careful not to develop a heavy, hammering touch from above; instead, build your tone by practicing slowly and carefully, layer by layer.