Sounds awesome on the piano too! A curated selection of masterpieces where the violin takes center stage
Moving piano masterpieces that stir the soul… Wait a second!
Did you know that some of them were originally written for the violin?
This time, we’ve handpicked beautiful violin masterpieces that are frequently performed on the piano.
From fiendishly difficult violin showpieces requiring virtuosic technique to wildly popular recital favorites—pieces many people play without realizing they were composed for the violin—we’ll introduce a wealth of works known for their flowing melodic lines.
Enjoy until the very end!
Sounds great on piano too! Carefully selected masterpieces where the violin takes center stage (1–10)
Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso in A minor, Op. 28Camille Saint-Saëns
Camille Saint-Saëns’s Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso is a captivating work, notable for its charming melodies and the violin’s sense of vitality.
Some listeners may be especially familiar with the solo piano version by pianist Shinya Kiyozuka, which was used by figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu for his short program.
Although the piece was originally written for violin, performing it with interpretations unique to the piano can make it even more compelling and memorable for audiences.
It is also recommended to compare the original with the piano version and craft your performance while enjoying the different expressive possibilities.
Sorrow of LoveFritz Kreisler
Born in Vienna in 1875, Fritz Kreisler is known as one of the leading violinists and composers of the 20th century.
He gave his first public performance at the age of seven and subsequently embarked on an international performing career.
This work is part of the set of three pieces “Alt-Wiener Tanzweisen” (Old Viennese Dances), which Kreisler composed in 1905.
Though tinged with sorrow, it exudes a certain brilliance that suggests hope and longing, drawing listeners into its enigmatic atmosphere—an exceptionally captivating piece.
While centered on the violin, it is also highly striking in piano performance; its plaintive melody resonates deeply with listeners.
As it demands richly expressive playing, it is a work in which the performer’s individuality is powerfully reflected.
Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64 – Movement IFelix Mendelssohn
The first movement of Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto in E minor, Op.
64, is a beloved staple of the violin concerto repertoire.
While it fully showcases the instrument’s appeal, its wistful melody and sentimental character also pair beautifully with the piano.
When expressing its passionate lines on the piano, it’s important to keep in mind violin-specific phrasing.
Why not enjoy a delicate and beautiful piano arrangement that offers a different flavor from the original’s rich texture for orchestra and solo violin?
Passion ContinentHakasé Tarō
A popular piece composed by world-renowned violinist Taro Hakase.
It’s well known as the theme song of the documentary program “Jounetsu Tairiku,” which has been airing since 1998.
While the powerful violin timbre suits it perfectly, it can also be performed movingly on the piano without losing the piece’s unique atmosphere.
To convey the work’s appeal, it’s important to incorporate dynamics and a wide range of expression.
Choose a score from the many available arrangements that suits you, play with passionate feeling, and aim for a performance with grand scale.
Joy of LoveFritz Kreisler
A master who plays the joy of love on the street corners of Vienna: Fritz Kreisler.
Born in 1875, this genius violinist gave his first public performance at the age of seven and later studied music in Vienna and Paris.
Recorded in New York in May 1910, this piece is characterized by a beautiful melody woven from pure delight and passionate affection.
Incorporating elements of the Viennese waltz, this radiant miniature opens in C major and modulates to F major in the middle section.
It is said that Kreisler’s encounter with his wife, Harriet, is reflected in the work.
Though a celebrated violin masterpiece, it is also captivating on the piano, and is recommended for all who love music.
24 Caprices, Op. 1: No. 24Niccolo Paganini
Niccolò Paganini’s Caprice No.
24 from 24 Caprices, Op.
1 is a pillar of the violin repertoire.
However, because Franz Liszt selected several of the caprices and composed the Grandes études de Paganini—of which No.
24 is included—some listeners may be more familiar with it as a piano piece.
That said, this work originally demands extreme virtuosity on the violin, and it is quite challenging on the piano as well.
Liszt’s arrangement is nothing short of super-advanced.
If you love this piece and want to try playing it, it may be wise to start with a simplified arrangement featuring fewer notes.
Zigeunerweisen, Op. 20Pablo de Sarasate
Zigeunerweisen, a masterpiece for violin completed in 1878 by the Spanish-born violinist Pablo de Sarasate.
The title, meaning “Gypsy Melodies,” fits a work structured in three parts: a first section like a cry of anguish, a middle section brimming with happiness, and a latter section that builds to a bright, dazzling finale.
Savor the challenge and fascination of recreating on the piano techniques and expressions unique to string instruments—such as exquisite legato and plucked pizzicato.
Tufted puffinHakasé Tarō
When it comes to signature pieces by Taro Hakase, one of Japan’s most renowned violinists, the song used as the ending theme for the documentary program “Jounetsu Tairiku” immediately comes to mind.
While the piece pairs perfectly with the soaring timbre of the violin, it can also be performed movingly on the piano without losing its distinctive atmosphere.
To convey the original’s sense of openness, it’s important to incorporate a wide range of dynamics and expression.
Included on the album “Adagio,” this work is a flowing, life-affirming piece that evokes majestic natural landscapes.
Choose a score arrangement suited to your level from the various versions available, and aim for a performance with a grand sense of scale.
Love’s GreetingEdward Elgar
A deeply moving piece composed by the English composer Edward Elgar as a gift to his beloved wife.
In 1888, he poured his feelings for his fiancée, Caroline Alice, into this work.
Over a lilting piano accompaniment, the violin sings a sweet, lyrical melody.
The 2/4 meter creates a sense of “musical breathing” between phrases, captivating the listener throughout.
In the middle section, a more cheerful theme in the minor mode appears, with the violin making full use of its upper register.
Characterized by its warm, heartfelt melody, it is a piece cherished by listeners of all ages.
Violin Sonata No. 5 in F major, Op. 24, 1st movementLudwig van Beethoven
Beethoven’s Violin Sonata No.
5 in F major, Op.
24, composed in 1801, is affectionately known as the “Spring” Sonata.
Many may remember it from performance scenes in the drama Nodame Cantabile, which portrays young people pursuing careers in music.
The first movement, in particular—renowned for its beautiful melody that evokes a gentle spring—pairs exceptionally well with the piano, and performing it on piano brings out the work’s elegance.
You can fully enjoy the unique resonance and rich tonal palette of the piano, offering a sound world not found in the original violin version.