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Lovely classics

Morning Classics | A selection of classic masterpieces recommended for those who want to wake up feeling great

Classical music is said to have various effects.

In particular, its relaxing effects have been recognized academically, and it has even been put to practical use—for example, in the livestock industry, where animals are made to listen to classical music.

Of course, the same applies to humans, and there are many works that soothe the mind.

This time, we’ve selected masterpieces from classical music that are perfect for the morning.

Listening to classical music in the morning is sure to boost your studying and work throughout the day!

Morning Classics | A selection of famous classical music pieces recommended for those who want to wake up feeling good (1–10)

Canon and Gigue in D major, P.37 No. 1: CanonJohann Pachelbel

Johann Pachelbel’s masterpiece, Canon and Gigue in D major for three violins and basso continuo, features the first half—the Canon—which almost everyone has heard at least once, and it’s especially famous in Japan as one of the most beloved chord progressions.

Among its versions, I particularly recommend Canon and Gigue in D major, P.37, No.

1: Canon.

While it includes the familiar phrases from the commonly known Canon, this performance is played with a light touch rather than a dramatic one.

It truly feels like chamber music, making it a perfect piece for a quiet morning.

Suite “The Gadfly” Op.97a No. 8 “Romance”Dmitri Dmitriyevich Shostakovich

Dmitri Shostakovich was one of the great pianists active during the Soviet era.

After achieving excellent results at the first Chopin Competition, he also produced several masterpieces as a composer.

Among Shostakovich’s works, the one I especially recommend is Suite “The Gadfly,” Op.

97a: No.

8, “Romance.” As the title suggests, it features a wistful melody that evokes romance.

It’s a very gentle and beautiful piece that can make you feel as if you’re in a Disney movie, so I highly recommend using it as morning background music.

Variations on a Theme by Haydn, Op. 56aJohannes Brahms

Variations on a Theme by Haydn, Op. 56a: I. Theme (Chorale St. Anthony)
Variations on a Theme by Haydn, Op. 56aJohannes Brahms

Johannes Brahms’s 1873 masterpiece Variations on a Theme by Haydn, Op.

56a—also known as the Haydn Variations or Variations on the St.

Anthony Chorale—features a consistently gentle melody that unfolds while giving each variation its own character.

It’s a perfect piece for a leisurely weekend morning.

With its slightly noble tone, it also pairs nicely with breakfast listening.

Be sure to give it a try.

Morning Classics | A Selection of Classical Masterpieces Recommended for Those Who Want to Wake Up Feeling Good (11–20)

Music on the Water – Alla HornpipeGeorg Friedrich Händel

Handel: Water Music – Alla Hornpipe, performed by a Baroque orchestra
Music on the Water – Alla HornpipeGeorg Friedrich Händel

This is a masterpiece by George Frideric Handel, a composer emblematic of the Baroque era.

It premiered in 1717 on the River Thames for King George I of Great Britain during a royal water party.

It is characterized by its brilliant, lively rhythms and melodies, with horns, trumpets, and strings carrying the main themes.

The work evokes the opulent atmosphere of the royal court and the excitement of festivities, achieving a style that is both elegant and grand.

It’s perfect for those who want to savor a refreshing morning mood.

Its bright, splendid melodies are sure to energize you for a new day.

Even those new to classical music will find it approachable and enjoyable, making it highly recommended.

String Quartet: Divertimento in D major, K. 136Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Listening to Mozart’s music is said to reduce stress and be beneficial for your health.

This piece, composed by Mozart when he was 16, is characterized by its bright and refreshing melodies.

It consists of three movements, offering variety with the brisk theme of the first movement, the elegant beauty of the second, and the lively finale of the third.

Composed in Salzburg in 1772, it also shows the influence of Italian music.

With its invigorating tone that can help you wake up refreshed in the morning, it’s perfect as morning classical music—highly recommended for anyone who wants to start the day feeling good.

String Quartet: Divertimento in F major, K. 138Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Composed by the genius composer Mozart, whom Vienna, Austria proudly claims, this piece was written when he was 16.

Completed in Salzburg in 1772, it is scored for string quartet or string orchestra.

Consisting of three movements, it lasts about 12 minutes.

The opening of the first movement has a playful, opera buffa-like character that gives listeners an approachable impression.

Its bright, light Italianate style makes it perfect for waking up in the morning.

With its pleasant timbre and elegant atmosphere, it’s sure to set a refreshing tone for the start of your day.

It’s also a great recommendation for those interested in classical music but unsure where to begin.

Minuet from ‘L’Arlésienne’Georges Bizet

An elegant piece by Georges Bizet, a composer emblematic of French Romanticism.

The brilliant melodies of flute and harp evoke the graceful ambiance of the southern French countryside.

Its calming character makes it perfect for a morning listen.

Originally composed as incidental music for a play, it was later arranged for concert performance.

It’s also interesting that it was composed in a short period in 1872.

Highly recommended for those who want to start their day pleasantly with classical music.