[2026] Masterpieces of instrumental music. Recommended instrumental tracks.
The genre of music without vocals—so-called “instrumentals,” also known in Japan by the abbreviation “inst”—covers a wide range of pieces, from film soundtracks and classical music to 15-second commercial jingles.
In this article, we’ve curated a broad selection of recommended instrumental masterpieces, from world-famous soundtrack tunes to fiery guitar instrumentals and soothing lounge music.
We hope it sparks a new realization—“Songs without lyrics might actually be great!”
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[2026] Masterpieces of Instrumentals: Recommended Instrumental Tracks (171–180)
land of make believeChuck Mangione
A famous piece by Chuck Mangione that abundantly showcases the flugelhorn’s tone.
Its light, brisk tempo sets it apart from his other works and gives it a distinctly fusion feel.
The song is widely known and has been covered by various artists at many concerts.
ToccataDavid Garrett
This is a piece by David Garrett, a violinist known for his incredible virtuosity.
He has turned famous classical pieces into violin rock.
Even those who feel classical music might be a bit intimidating can enjoy it casually.
Nut RockerEmerson Lake&Palmer
A rock-arranged track based on Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker.
It’s included as an encore at the end of the live album Pictures at an Exhibition.
The image of ELP’s “face,” Keith Emerson, striking the keyboards onstage is unforgettable.
Tchaikovsky’s works originally have melodies that connect to popular music and are easy to listen to, so perhaps it appealed even to people who say, “Progressive rock isn’t really my thing.” Still, their sheer arranging prowess is nothing short of astonishing.
Keith Emerson’s genius can also be seen in pieces from his pre-ELP days with The Nice, such as America (from West Side Story).
(Anesthesia) – Pulling TeethMetallica
Even if you know the name Metallica, you might assume they’re a heavy metal band that doesn’t do instrumental tracks.
The piece introduced here, “(Anesthesia) – Pulling Teeth,” is actually a bass solo by Cliff Burton, Metallica’s early member and legendary bassist who propelled the band with his innovative style before tragically dying in an accident.
It appears on their landmark debut album, Kill ’Em All, and the songwriting credit lists Cliff himself as the sole composer.
The fiercely distorted bass tone delivers an impressively aggressive and cool sound, so even if you don’t usually listen to metal, if you’re a bassist, this is a track you should hear at least once!
Friend of the NightMogwai
It’s a type of song called post-rock.
While based on a band sound, it weaves in piano phrases.
It’s intense yet calm and unhurried—a track you’d want to listen to quietly in your room while having a drink.