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

Siegfried IdyllRichard Wagner

Wagner: Siegfried Idyll [Naxos Classic Curation #Fantasy]

Recommended for when you want to be wrapped in a calm, intimate atmosphere.

This piece was composed by Richard Wagner, known as the “King of Music Drama.” It was performed in December 1870 as a birthday gift for his wife, Cosima, and is accompanied by a heartwarming story: it was played on the staircase of their home solely for his family.

While Wagner is often associated with grand, monumental operas, this work is characterized by the delicate and gentle timbre of a small orchestra.

It is also cherished as a classic of the Christmas season, and its pastoral melodies—evoking birdsong and the light of morning—can bring a pleasant sense of focus without interrupting your work as background music.

A perfect classical number for those who want to study or work quietly.

Divertimento in D major, K. 136 – Movement IWolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Mozart: Divertimento in D major, K. 136 – Movement I

Composed in Salzburg at the beginning of 1772 and affectionately known as the “Salzburg Symphony,” this work by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart features a first movement whose bright, driving melodies—shaped by his travels in Italy—leave a lasting impression, making it a masterpiece for string ensemble.

Many people may recognize it, as it was once used as the departure melody at Ikebukuro Station.

Its pleasant string sonorities and propulsive development can enliven time spent on tasks or studying that tend to feel stagnant.

It’s a highly recommended classical number, perfect for clearing your head and helping you focus.

Joy of LoveFritz Kreisler

Kreisler: Liebesfreud [Naxos Classical Curation #Gorgeous]

Viennese dance music that is resplendent and full of elegance.

If you like that atmosphere, this work by Fritz Kreisler is recommended.

It is often mentioned as part of a trilogy together with “Liebesleid” (Love’s Sorrow) and “Schön Rosmarin” (Beautiful Rosemary), and is a celebrated piece.

Published around 1905, it also has a history of being released on SP record in 1911, and it was featured on the TV Tokyo program “100 Years of Music.” Sergei Rachmaninoff’s piano arrangement is also well known, so if you’re interested, be sure to check it out.

Use it as background music while you work, and you’ll likely feel more elegant and focused.

Beautiful RosemaryFritz Kreisler

Kreisler: Beautiful Rosmarin [Naxos Classic Curation #Chic]

The light, charming melody reminiscent of a Viennese ball is truly striking.

“Schön Rosmarin,” composed by the renowned Austrian violinist Fritz Kreisler, is a short piece for violin and piano that seems to paint a delicate flower in music.

Its springy, waltz-like tone naturally brightens the listener’s mood.

The score was published in 1910, and Kreisler himself recorded it in December 1912.

As one of a trilogy alongside “Liebesfreud” (Love’s Joy) and “Liebesleid” (Love’s Sorrow), it’s highly recommended to listen to them together.

It is also frequently used as background music in commercials and visual works, so do check it out as a refreshing interlude during tasks or as gentle study BGM.

Summer MorningHeino Kasuki

Summer Morning (composed by Kaski) Pianist: Kanako Ishihara — Sommermorgen (Kaski) / Kanako Ishihara -Purenist-

This is a piano piece by the Finnish composer Heino Kaski, known as Op.

35-1 “Summer Morning.” The work features a beautifully transparent melody that seems to capture the pure air of a Nordic morning in sound.

Its delicate trills evoke the sparkle of sunlight filtering through leaves, and the gentle yet gradually broadening brightness will refresh the listener’s heart.

It has a cool, invigorating quality that makes you forget muggy heat, and it’s perfect for quietly enjoying music.

Believed to have been composed in the early 1920s, it is also included in pianist Izumi Tateno’s acclaimed album “Piano Works.”

String Quartet No. 2, Movement 1Alexander Borodin

Borodin: Quartet No. 2 in D major for Strings, I. Allegro moderato

Known as a masterpiece brimming with lyrical beauty, this string quartet captivates with its sweet, lovestruck melodies and delicate fragility.

Highlights include the theme that begins in the cello and passes to the first violin, as well as the lively interplay among the instruments.

It is also a highly rewarding piece for performers.

Begun in July 1881 and completed by September—a remarkably swift pace—the work overflows with a warm resonance filled with love.

It is an ideal choice for those who wish to savor beautiful melodies and rich expressiveness.

Like a melodyJohannes Brahms

Brahms: "As if it were melody" — from the album "Poésie: Playing Poetry (Song)"

This work, set to a poem by Klaus Groth, a friend of Johannes Brahms, is characterized by a warmly embracing quality.

The wide intervals within the phrases and skillful modulations lend the piece delicacy and depth.

Its melody, deeply intertwined with the poem’s content, conveys an attempt to express emotions and thoughts beyond words through the power of music.

Beginning with broad, arpeggiated progressions and unfolding into long-breathed, beautiful melodic lines, this piece is recommended for those who wish to explore the deepest emotions of the heart through music.

Composed in 1886 and published in 1888, this song, written when Brahms was 53, has continued to be cherished by many performers and audiences.