[Orchestra] Introducing famous and popular pieces
Among classical music, the orchestra is the most opulent and offers the widest range of expression.
When a variety of instruments, each infused with the performer’s own sensibility, come together to create a single piece of music, it produces a unique allure found nowhere else.
In this article, we’ve picked out famous and popular orchestral pieces.
Even within orchestral music, there are many genres—from symphonies and concertos to operas.
We’re introducing everything from pieces everyone has heard to works well-known among classical enthusiasts, so be sure to check them out.
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[Orchestra] Introducing famous and popular pieces (61–70)
Tritsch-Tratsch-PolkaJohann Strauss II
An orchestral polka composed in 1858 by the Austrian composer Johann Strauss II.
The title “Tritsch-Tratsch” is German for “women’s chatter.” It’s a lively, dazzling piece that sounds as if women are chattering away and laughing out loud! It’s a great recommendation even for those who aren’t familiar with classical music!
Prelude to Act III from LohengrinRichard Wagner
Lohengrin is one of the knights who appears in the legend of King Arthur.
He is the hero who arrived in a swan-drawn boat to rescue a princess who was about to be ensnared by intrigue.
This prelude is a highly brilliant piece performed at the beginning of Act III, which opens with the wedding scene of the princess.
If you listen closely to the oboe toward the end, you can hear the melody of the famous Bridal Chorus that follows.
EntertainerScott Joplin
“The Entertainer” was composed in 1902.
It begins in C major, but later modulates to F major; in that section the rhythm also differs from the rest.
With a brisk yet relaxed feel, the piece follows an A-B-A-C-D form.
It was apparently not very popular at the time, but after it was used in the film “The Sting,” it became instantly famous.
Even today it is widely used in commercials and video games, so many people have likely heard it.
Jesu, Joy of Man’s DesiringJ.S.Bach
Movement 6 of a church cantata.
Bach also composed many works based on the Bible.
Piano arrangements are often performed, but with an orchestra you can truly savor that deep, expansive sonority.
A melody filled with joyful hope is repeated.
In the MoodGuren Mirā Ōkesutora
A bright, sprightly swing rhythm resonates pleasantly, making listeners feel happy—this is a true classic.
The smooth, sophisticated sound unique to the Glenn Miller Orchestra seeps deep into the heart.
Released in August 1939, the piece shines with the saxophone section’s beautiful harmonies and dance floor–minded arrangement.
A gem also featured in the 1941 film “Sun Valley Serenade” and the 1954 “The Glenn Miller Story.” Perfect for creating warm, uplifting moments—whether during a quick refresh between work or study, or at a home party with friends—it continues to be loved by many to this day.
The Fountains of RomeOttorino Respighi
After moving to Rome in 1913, Respighi found inspiration there and composed his Roman Trilogy.
The first of these, The Fountains of Rome, was written in 1916.
Rome has an abundance of fountains, which strongly evoke its historical background.
The Fountains of Rome is beautiful, elegant, and delicate, while The Roman Festivals and The Pines of Rome are also wonderfully lively pieces.
Overture to ‘Heaven and Hell’Jacques Offenbach
This piece, commonly played at sports festivals and known as “Heaven and Hell,” is also called “Orpheus in the Underworld.” Its contrasts—ranging from beautiful melodies to cheerful ones, and even sorrowful passages—are highly captivating.
The piece is based on the story of Orpheus from Greek mythology.
Reading the synopsis deepens your appreciation of the music even further.