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)
Invention No. 8, BWV 779J.S.Bach
This piece in F major, set in 3/4 time, begins with ascending broken chords brimming with the lively energy of a fanfare and exudes a bright, spirited atmosphere.
The distinctive rhythm created by the interplay of upper and lower voices, chasing each other with a one-measure delay, is pleasing and makes the listener’s heart dance.
Although composed for educational purposes, the work’s musical appeal captivates audiences.
The left-hand passages using the 3rd, 4th, and 5th fingers are somewhat challenging, but with practice, it’s a wonderful piece that allows you to feel tangible improvement in two-hand technique.
With its bright, festive character and a well-balanced technical challenge, it’s an ideal choice for a recital.
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.
Carrying YouHisaishi Joe
Castle in the Sky (Laputa), a masterpiece animated film from Studio Ghibli, continues to be loved by people of all ages.
Not only is the story wonderful, but the theme song Carrying You—composed by Joe Hisaishi with lyrics by director Hayao Miyazaki—is also cherished as a timeless classic.
Playing pop pieces in a piano arrangement is often thought to be challenging, but if you choose sheet music that matches your skill level, you can enjoy performing them with ease! If you’re a beginner or returning after a break, try selecting beginner-friendly scores with note names written in kana and practice so that the melody comes through clearly.
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.