Difficult Piano Pieces: From Classical to Jazz Piano
For those with a deep appreciation for the piano, there often comes a time—once a certain level of knowledge and technique has been acquired—when they gravitate toward listening to more challenging pieces.
Among the many genres, classical and jazz piano in particular feature numerous highly demanding works that have long stood as formidable obstacles for many performers.
This time, we’ve picked out some especially difficult piano pieces.
From jazz piano that emphasizes rapid runs, to classical works with extreme leaps in the scale, and even contemporary classical pieces that combine both traits, we’ve selected from a wide range of styles—so be sure to check them out.
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- [Advanced] A Comprehensive Introduction to the Difficult Piano Pieces of Chopin, the Poet of the Piano!
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Challenging Piano Pieces | From Classical to Jazz Piano (51–60)
Toccata from Le Tombeau de CouperinMaurice Ravel
This piece, which serves as the finale of a six-movement suite composed in memory of friends who died in World War I, is distinguished by its fast tempo and virtuosic passages—a gem that adds a modern interpretation to a form developed since the Baroque era.
Premiered at the Salle Gaveau in Paris in April 1919, it has continued to captivate performers and audiences alike ever since.
In addition to its brilliant and powerful sonorities, it masterfully fuses Maurice Ravel’s distinctive harmonies and rhythmic sense, overwhelming listeners with its intensity.
Although it demands advanced technical skill, it is a superb work that can enthrall a live audience, making it a perfect choice for those who wish to perform at a piano recital.
Gaspard of the Night, No. 1: OndineMaurice Ravel
If you’re well-versed in French literature, the title Gaspard de la nuit may remind you of the poetry collection by Aloysius (Louis) Bertrand, born in 19th-century France.
The work discussed here, however, is Maurice Ravel’s suite for solo piano, a piece of the same name inspired by three poems included in Bertrand’s collection.
Of the three movements, given our theme of “music to hear in the hot summer,” let’s focus on the first, Ondine.
“Ondine” is the name of the water spirit among the four classical elements; in Japanese, the form “Undine” may be more familiar.
When it comes to Ravel’s water-themed piano works, Jeux d’eau often comes to mind, but Ondine is a piece you should certainly know as well.
It portrays the story of an ondine who falls in love with a human, expressing both the spirit’s heartbreak and the image of heavy rainfall through Ravel’s characteristically sophisticated technique—an exquisite, delicate, and dramatic masterpiece.
Play of WaterMaurice Ravel
Maurice Ravel, a great composer who created numerous masterpieces with his original musicality.
Among his works, Jeux d’eau (Fountains/Playing Water) is one of his most famous pieces.
Beginning with eighth notes in the left hand and sixteenth notes in the right, this work—despite its restrained structure—demands considerable expressiveness to produce a sound with real core.
There are many deceptively tricky spots, such as at measure 4 and in passages where the same figure jumps up two octaves.
All the more reason, though, that it makes a solid impression when performed well.
15 Virtuoso Études, Op. 72 No. 2Moritz Moszkowski
A Romantic masterpiece woven from passionate melodies and meticulous technique.
Despite its brief duration of about two minutes, this work captivates listeners with the striking triplets resonating in the left hand.
In keeping with the Allegro brillante marking, it calls for an approach that exudes brilliance, demanding both rich expressiveness and assured technical skill.
With a delicate touch that emphasizes wrist rotation to make each note sparkle, it will add radiance to any recital stage.
Published in Paris in 1903, this piece is a compelling addition to the repertoire, opening a new musical door beyond Czerny.
Eight Concert Etudes, Op. 40: No. 3 “Toccatina”Nikolai Kapustin
The great composer Nikolai Kapustin, beloved by many fans for his sophisticated musicality.
Among his works, the piece I especially recommend as a particularly challenging one is Eight Concert Etudes, Op.
40, No.
3 “Toccatina.” It’s a very famous work.
While it’s crafted with a jazzy flavor, the prelude is incredibly difficult! There are, of course, many other pieces that are hard in a straightforward sense, but to perform this one while fully realizing its high level of musical and dramatic effect requires considerable skill.