Piano Masterpieces: Surprisingly Easy Despite Sounding Difficult!? A Curated Selection Perfect for Recitals
Many people probably think, “It would be so cool and fun if I could play the piano!” I usually teach piano at home, and I have many adult students who come to me asking, “Is it still possible for me to learn to play from now?” So this time, I’ll introduce piano pieces that may look difficult but are surprisingly approachable on the piano, focusing on classical music! Perfectly pursuing the essence of a piece does require considerable technique, but in some cases there are published scores with simple arrangements that even beginners can play shortly after starting.
If you’re thinking about starting the piano, or if you’re hoping to perform at a recital someday, I hope you’ll find this helpful!
- [For Elementary School Students] Brilliant, Showy Masterpieces That Sound Impressive at Piano Recitals
- Beginner to Intermediate: Chopin pieces with relatively low difficulty. Recommended works by Chopin.
- [For Piano Recitals] Simple yet Cool Classical Pieces
- [For Adults] Recommended for Piano Recitals! A Curated Selection of Impressively Sounding Masterpieces
- [Intermediate Level] Cool Piano Pieces You Can Play [Great for Recitals Too]
- It’s so cool if you can play these on the piano! A selection of irresistibly charming masterpieces.
- [Beginner] Recommended Piano Pieces to Play at a Recital
- [For Advanced Players] A Curated Selection of Classical Masterpieces to Tackle at Piano Recitals
- For Beginners: Easy to Play and Sounds Impressive! Pieces That Shine at Piano Recitals
- [Intermediate Level] A curated selection of piano masterpieces featuring strikingly brilliant melodies!
- Recommended for piano beginners! 10 sheet music picks that adults can enjoy too
- [Piano Pieces] Easy for Children to Play! A Roundup of Simple Classical Works
- Lower difficulty: Not as hard as it sounds!? Debussy’s piano pieces
Piano Masterpieces: Surprisingly Easy Despite Sounding Difficult!? A Curated Selection Perfect for Recitals (111–120)
Turkish MarchWolfgang Amadeus Mozart
This work, notable for its cheerful and lively melody, is a masterpiece influenced by the Turkish-style music that became popular in the late 18th century.
It features distinctive rhythms modeled after the Ottoman Empire’s military bands and powerful timbres reminiscent of cymbals and drums.
Composed around 1783, the piece can be regarded as a triumph that fully showcases Mozart’s creativity during his Vienna period.
Its approachable melody and exotic atmosphere blend beautifully, making it enjoyable for listeners from classical music beginners to seasoned enthusiasts.
It is sure to shine in glamorous concerts and recitals as well.
SummerHisaishi Joe
Every time summer arrives in Japan, this light yet somehow nostalgic melody pops into our heads—surely many people feel the same.
Joe Hisaishi’s timeless classic “Summer,” by one of Japan’s most celebrated composers, was released as the main theme for Takeshi Kitano’s 1999 film “Kikujiro,” and later featured in commercials, becoming a beloved piece around the world.
It’s also included on Hisaishi’s own piano solo album ENCORE, so there are certainly those who prefer “Summer” as a solo piano piece.
Sheet music is available for various skill levels, so even those lacking confidence in their playing can enjoy it without getting discouraged!
Ave MariaCharles Gounod
Many people have probably heard the words “Ave Maria” at least once.
However, “Ave Maria” itself is a line from the Latin Catholic liturgy, and because pieces inspired by it are also called “Ave Maria,” there are many different “Ave Marias” around the world.
Among them, the Ave Maria composed in 1859 by the French composer Charles Gounod is a highly renowned vocal work and a classic masterpiece frequently performed as a piano solo.
Since its structure is very simple to begin with, if you choose an arrangement with fewer notes, even beginner pianists can try it with ease.
Take your time to savor the beauty of the piece and practice it carefully.
Burgmüller 25 Easy and Progressive Studies, Op. 100 No. 20 “Tarantella”Johann Burgmüller
This is a passionate piece in 6/8 time, modeled on a traditional dance from southern Italy.
It features a vibrant, driving rhythm and light, graceful melodies, and was published in Paris in 1851.
Named after the southern Italian city of Taranto, the work skillfully captures the atmosphere of the folk dance that was actually performed there.
In the middle section, it modulates to the parallel major, shifting to a more brilliant character in a captivating structure.
With its sprightly rhythm and energetic melody, this piece is ideal for those who want to enjoyably build fundamental piano technique.
It also makes a wonderful choice for a recital, sure to captivate the audience.
Piano Sonata No. 11 in A major, Op. 311, Third Movement “Turkish March”Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s “Turkish March” is actually the third movement of his Piano Sonata No.
11.
Because this movement is so famous, it is often performed on its own rather than as part of the full sonata.
Speaking of “Turkish March,” Beethoven’s piece with the same title is also well known, but Mozart’s work demands more technique and endurance, making it more difficult.
However, once you finish playing it, you’re sure to feel a great sense of accomplishment! Master this masterpiece with flair and show off the results of your hard work at your recital!
Merry Christmas Mr.LawrenceSakamoto Ryuichi
In March 2023, following in the footsteps of his longtime YMO-era ally Yukihiro Takahashi, who had passed away that January, Ryuichi Sakamoto—fondly known as “the Professor”—also left this world.
Among the many celebrated works Sakamoto created—revered worldwide as “Sakamoto of the World” for everything from pop and film scores to experimental music—the popularity of Merry Christmas, Mr.
Lawrence, the main theme from the film of the same name, stands out in particular.
Though he studied classical music and was well-versed in music theory, Sakamoto approached creation with a free imagination that was never confined by it.
The melodies he crafted carry a certain nostalgia, yet they never fail to move us with a fresh sense of wonder whenever we listen.
As you’d expect from such a beloved piece, there are many beginner-friendly scores available—so why not start by giving one of those a try?
In conclusion
The piano can certainly feel intimidating, but no matter your age, if you have a strong desire to say, “I want to learn to play the piano!”, you can improve.
What’s important is to enjoy yourself and to steadily practice while keeping your motivation up.
By taking on the masterpieces introduced here, you’re sure to feel a great sense of accomplishment.