[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 (51–60)
Symphony No. 5Gustav Mahler
Beginning with a foreboding trumpet fanfare, this work is Mahler’s first symphony written in the 20th century.
It opens solemnly but grows brighter and more grand as it progresses, leading from “funeral march” to “triumph.” The piece also quotes melodies from his own songs, such as Des Knaben Wunderhorn and Kindertotenlieder.
The fourth movement is also famous for its use in Luchino Visconti’s film Death in Venice.
Symphonic Suite ScheherazadeNikolai Rimsky-Korsakov
The symphonic suite Scheherazade was composed in 1888.
This piece is based on the famous One Thousand and One Nights.
The dignified melody that opens the work is the theme of King Shahryar, and the violin that enters to gently soften it is the theme of Scheherazade, which also gives the piece its title.
The work consists of four movements, each with a programmatic title.
Elsa’s Procession to the Cathedral from the opera LohengrinWilhelm Wagner
This piece, with its majestic and sacred atmosphere, unfolds at a leisurely tempo and is distinguished by its rich orchestration.
The harmony between brass and strings is beautiful, leaving listeners deeply moved.
Premiered in August 1850, the work depicts a scene from an opera, superbly conveying the protagonist’s purity and the solemnity of the ritual.
It is often used as background music for weddings and religious ceremonies and is beloved by many.
It is recommended not only for those interested in classical music but also for anyone seeking a beautiful melody that resonates with the heart.
Symphony No. 9 “Choral”Ludwig van Beethoven
Beethoven’s Symphony No.
9, also famous by the nickname “The Ninth,” is performed in many places at the end of the year.
Surely everyone has heard the fourth movement with chorus at least once, right? The choral melody is also well known in Japan as the song “Ode to Joy.” It has been translated into countless languages around the world and is sometimes sung with those lyrics.
Take this opportunity to enjoy “The Ninth” from beginning to end!
Tannhäuser: OvertureRichard Wagner
The Tannhäuser Overture is performed in the three-act opera Tannhäuser and the Song Contest at the Wartburg.
It evokes images of grand, majestic nature.
The opening sounds from the clarinets, bassoons, and horns are captivating.
The solid, resonant tones of the strings and winds are a highlight of this piece.
Overture to the operetta ‘Light Cavalry’Franz von Suppè
An Austrian composer Suppé’s signature work was originally a number performed in his two-act operetta Light Cavalry, but the main body of the work has been lost, and today only this overture remains.
After the famous trumpet theme rings out bravely at the opening, a march reminiscent of a horse’s gallop appears, evoking scenes of battle.
Following a wistful melody in the strings, the march returns, and the curtain falls on a bright note.
In addition to its light, deft melodies and lively rhythms, the piece embodies the unique elegance of Vienna.
Piano Concerto No. 2Sergei Vasil’evich Rachmaninov
It was used as background music in a TV program for a figure skating championship.
It’s well known because Mao Asada often used it.
Its hallmark is a sorrowful yet beautiful melody that suits skating perfectly.
It depicts both human sadness and joy.
It begins with a deep sense of sorrow and helplessness.
Gradually, the downcast feeling lifts, as if discovering hope.
The interplay between these two emotions is performed with great care.
Symphony No. 2, Movement IIISergei Rachmaninov
A moving melody woven from beauty and melancholy seeps into the heart.
Beginning with a clarinet solo and expanding to the full orchestra, the sonic world shakes the listener’s soul.
Its lyrical line, which evokes nostalgia and distant memories, feels as if it were singing of a beloved person.
It is also featured in the film “Bridget Jones’s Diary,” known as a classic that colors romantic scenes.
Recommended for those who wish to heal the pain of heartbreak or to bask in memories with someone dear.
Premiered in January 1908 to great success, it is also famous as a work that symbolizes the composer’s rebirth.
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!
Serenade for StringsPeter Ilyich Tchaikovsky
You probably remember the Staff Service commercial with the “Corporate—Oh Jinji, Oh Jinji” jingle as background music.
It’s also been used in ads for Tokyo DisneySea and Kracie.
The melody gently soothes a mind and body tired from work or study.
The strings are beautiful, wrapping the listener’s heart in warmth.
For example, if you’re feeling stressed from human relationships, this piece can wash away that hazy feeling—it has that kind of power.
It’s great to listen to while taking a bath.