A recital you perform in after you’ve been playing piano for a good while.
Based on having participated a few times already, this may be the time when ideals for your recital piece start to take shape—like “I want to play that piece I heard last year!” or “I’ve played a lot of slow, relaxed pieces so far, but I want to try something up-tempo!”
In this article, we’ll introduce piano pieces that really shine on stage and are perfect for players who have cleared the beginner level and are moving into the intermediate range.
We hope this helps you choose your next recital piece as you compare options with your own ideals in mind.
[For Intermediate Players] Challenge! Recommended Masterpieces That Sound Impressive at Piano Recitals (1–10)
Children’s Piano Piece: Etude AllegroNakata Yoshinao
Etude Allegro “Recommended Pieces for Piano Recitals” Yoshinao Nakata – Etude Allegro – CANACANA
This elegant and refreshing étude in C major is a captivating piece woven from continuous sixteenth notes and richly varied phrases.
Its brisk tempo and the brilliant shimmer of glissandi are sure to enchant audiences at recitals.
The work was released as the final piece in the acclaimed 1956 album Children’s Piano Pieces, which comprises 17 works.
By cherishing clarity of articulation while incorporating tempo changes and dynamic contrasts, performers can achieve a balance of technical proficiency and musical expression.
It is an ideal choice for those seeking to develop finger independence or looking for a dazzling recital piece.
Sonatina No. 12 Sheet Music, Op. 36-6, First Movement – Sheet Music by M. Clementi
Beginning with elegant and flamboyant arpeggios, this piece brims with the refinement and vitality of the Classical era.
The smoothly spun right-hand melody interwoven with the left hand’s graceful accompaniment forms a beautiful line filled with the brightness and hope reminiscent of spring’s arrival.
This work is included in Muzio Clementi’s 1797 collection Sonatinas Op.
36; Clementi is also known as the author of Gradus ad Parnassum.
Powerful phrases and delicate expression are harmoniously balanced, making it a popular choice for piano competitions and recitals.
With its four richly expressive sections that allow for a wide range of emotions, it is an ideal piece for players who wish to refine their technique while deepening their musicality.
A brilliant piano piece that radiates vivid sparkle.
The whirlwind of nonstop sixteenth notes and the rhythm etched by the left hand weave a sonic world that almost feels like a jazz combo on stage.
Beginning with simple chords and unfolding into a vibrant Latin rhythm, this work blends classical virtuosity with jazz swing in exquisite balance.
I’m especially reminded of Nobuyuki Tsujii’s performance at Suntory Hall in February 2018; the dynamic colors drawn from a single piano were irresistibly captivating for the audience.
It’s a perfect piece for those seeking new musical possibilities and for performers who love both jazz and classical music.
Maiden’s Prayer – Badarzewska [La prière d’une vierge] Piano / CANACANA
A beautifully delicate piano miniature by 19th-century Polish woman composer Tekla Bądarzewska-Baranowska.
Characterized by an elegant melody symbolizing pure prayer, it deeply moves listeners.
Composed in 1851 when she was 18, the piece became beloved as salon music worldwide and achieved great popularity, being published by over 80 publishers.
Despite its simple structure, it has strong performance impact and is popular among piano learners.
Its bright, uplifting atmosphere is especially appealing and makes it a standout choice for recitals.
Let me introduce a gem that captures the dynamism of Italian dance on the piano.
Composed by Moritz Moszkowski, this piece is characterized by its rhythmic flow in 6/8 time and its graceful melodies.
Wrapped in a cheerful, brilliant atmosphere, it was published in 1899 and has continued to be loved by many pianists for its captivating melody and richly expressive performance qualities.
The alternating scales and arpeggios between the right and left hands are technically demanding yet possess a mesmerizing beauty.
It’s an ideal choice for those who want to improve their piano technique or deliver a memorable performance at a recital.
This is a compelling work that helps refine light, agile fingerwork and deepen expressive nuance.
Sonatina Op. 13-1, First MovementDmitri Kabalevsky
[Recommended for piano recitals] Sonatina Op. 13 No. 1, 1st movement ♪ Kabalevsky / Sonatina Op. 13 No. 1, Movement 1, Kabalevsky
Dmitry Kabalevsky, the Russian composer and pianist known for writing many excellent works for children, is especially celebrated for his Sonatina Op.
13 No.
1, a piece often performed at recitals.
Its lively character, which shifts moods playfully, captivates many young players.
The first movement, which opens with brilliant chords, is a highly impactful piece full of variety.
Aim for a performance with clear contrasts by differentiating between the crisp opening, the indescribably relaxed middle section, and the recapitulation, where the brisk energy returns.
Bach / Invention No. 8 in F major (J. S. Bach: Two-Part Invention No. 8 in F Major, BWV 779)
This piece in F major, set in 3/4 time, begins with ascending broken chords brimming with the lively energy of a fanfare and exudes a bright, spirited atmosphere.
The distinctive rhythm created by the interplay of upper and lower voices, chasing each other with a one-measure delay, is pleasing and makes the listener’s heart dance.
Although composed for educational purposes, the work’s musical appeal captivates audiences.
The left-hand passages using the 3rd, 4th, and 5th fingers are somewhat challenging, but with practice, it’s a wonderful piece that allows you to feel tangible improvement in two-hand technique.
With its bright, festive character and a well-balanced technical challenge, it’s an ideal choice for a recital.
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