[Intermediate Level] Cool Piano Pieces You Can Play [Great for Recitals Too]
You’ve moved beyond the beginner stage, but you still need a bit more experience to tackle advanced pieces… This time, we’ve gathered a cool selection of pieces that are perfect for anyone looking for intermediate-level piano music.
From delicate tones to powerful resonance, from lyrical moods to lively vibes—the expressive range of the piano is limitless!
We’re excited to introduce wonderful pieces that let you fully savor the instrument’s charm.
Alongside classic staples, we’ve included a wide variety of selections such as film music and pop tunes.
These pieces are all great choices for recitals, so if you’re unsure what to work on next, be sure to check them out!
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- Beginner to Intermediate: Chopin pieces with relatively low difficulty. Recommended works by Chopin.
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Cool Piano Pieces You Can Play [Intermediate Level] (Also Great for Recitals) (71–80)
Two Rhapsodies, Op. 79 No. 1Johannes Brahms
Johannes Brahms’s masterpiece, Rhapsody No.
1 from Two Rhapsodies, Op.
79.
It’s a piece you often hear at piano recitals featuring middle and high school students.
Overall, the difficulty is at an advanced level, but the hand positions are surprisingly stable, so it may feel relatively easy to play.
That’s not incorrect; however, as the piece develops, you’ll encounter markings like both crescendo and diminuendo on a single note, which means that not only fundamental piano technique but also the ability to interpret the score is put to the test.
Bergamasque Suite No. 1: PreludeClaude Debussy
Among Claude Debussy’s works, the Suite bergamasque is known for its approachable character.
The first movement, Prélude, opens with a bright melody like a shaft of light, passes through a middle section tinged with an uneasy atmosphere that employs church modes, and then returns to the opening theme as if the view suddenly clears before you.
While some of Debussy’s piano pieces defy conventional tonality and can be hard to grasp, this piece retains a sense of tonality and readily evokes imagery, making it a relatively accessible work to tackle.
Arabesque in C major, Op. 18Robert Schumann
Combining elegance with expressive richness, Robert Schumann’s Arabesque in C major, Op.
18 was composed in 1839 during his troubled days in Vienna.
Infused with Schumann’s signature poetic sensibility that captivates listeners, this piece is an excellent choice for a recital, offering a perfect opportunity to cultivate both lyricism and technique.
In particular, the turbulent section that follows the gentle passages provides outstanding practice for expanding one’s expressive range.
For intermediate players aiming to refine their performance skills, studying this work can also be a significant step toward building confidence.
Suite bergamasque, No. 3: Clair de LuneClaude Debussy
Claude Debussy’s masterpiece, “Suite bergamasque, No.
3: Clair de Lune.” To be blunt, it’s not a piece beginners can handle.
It can even be considered advanced.
In terms of difficulty, it’s about the same level as Czerny’s 40 Studies.
The core challenge lies in dynamic control, but the hardest section is the latter part where the chords stack up.
For those who struggle with octaves, it may be a tough piece.
That said, the other sections are about the same difficulty as Czerny’s 30 Studies, so intermediate players with larger hands may find it relatively easy.
Piano Sonata No. 11 in A major, K. 331, Third Movement “Turkish March”Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
A staple piece for piano recitals and one of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s most popular piano works, the “Turkish March.” Originally the third movement of the Piano Sonata No.
11 in A major, K.
331, it is often performed on its own in concerts and recitals rather than as part of the full sonata.
Its familiar melody is arranged in a variation-like manner, with the difficulty increasing toward the latter half.
To ensure you can play through to the end without losing lightness or momentum, carefully polish the finer techniques through diligent practice.
Lyric Pieces, Book VIII, Op. 65, No. 6: “Wedding Day at Troldhaugen”Edvard Hagerup Grieg
A piano piece composed by Edvard Grieg to commemorate his silver wedding anniversary with his wife, Nina, whose title includes the name of the place where the Griegs lived.
Interweaving a festive atmosphere with quiet joy, the work symbolizes the couple’s happy life.
Its appeal lies in the contrast between a march-like first section and a more introspective second section.
While there are technically challenging passages, it is an excellent piece for honing musical expression.
It is also popular as entertainment at weddings and has a charm that leaves listeners feeling happy.
Children’s Corner No. 5: The Little ShepherdClaude Debussy
The fifth piece from the piano suite Children’s Corner, which Claude Debussy composed for his beloved daughter Emma.
It is a work marked by a quiet melody with dotted rhythms.
The key to this piece lies in its exquisite sense of timing and space.
Rather than reproducing the notated rhythm exactly as written, it’s important to play while cherishing the moments of silence.
That said, for those who haven’t had much exposure to Debussy’s music, it can be difficult to grasp the feel.
Studying the phrasing and timing by listening to renowned pianists’ performances may help you acquire Debussy’s distinctive style more quickly.