[For Intermediate Players] Challenge Yourself! Recommended Masterpieces That Shine at Piano Recitals

Songs Without Words, Book V, Op. 62, No. 6, Spring SongFelix Mendelssohn

Spring Song: Mendelssohn — Songs Without Words “Frühlingslied,” Op. 62 No. 6 Mai Morimoto

“Spring Song,” included in Book 5 of Felix Mendelssohn’s signature piano collection Songs Without Words, is among the most famous and popular of the 48 pieces, and is frequently featured in recitals and concerts.

Its elegant, gentle melody is very easy to remember, but the left-hand leaps are unexpectedly challenging—many players feel that “listening to it and playing it give completely different impressions!” Precisely because it’s so rewarding to tackle, it’s a great choice for those aiming to step up from intermediate to advanced level.

Give it a try!

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Fantasiestücke, Op. 3 No. 1 “Elegy”Sergei Rachmaninov

Rachmaninoff – Elegie (Op. 3 No. 1)

This piece is the first of five short works completed by Sergei Rachmaninoff in 1892.

It is often performed at a gentle tempo.

For that reason, while it is not particularly difficult from a technical standpoint, simply placing the notes can result in a monotonous, uninteresting performance.

If you focus on details—such as which notes the sustained tones are leading toward, which voices to bring out, and how to balance the dynamics—you can achieve a more refined and beautiful interpretation.

It is a piece that lets you fully savor its wistful, melancholy character.

Nocturne No. 20, KK IVa/16 “Posthumous”Frederic Chopin

Nocturne No. 20 “Posthumous” in C-sharp minor – Chopin – Chopin: Nocturne in C-sharp minor (No. 20) – Classical Piano – CANACANA

Frédéric Chopin’s Nocturne No.

20 in C-sharp minor, KK.

IVa/16 (“posthumous”), which drew attention for its performance scene in the film The Pianist, was in fact composed not in his later years but when Chopin was around 20.

It bears the label “posthumous” because it was published after his death, in 1875.

Its haunting, unforgettable melody captures the hearts of many and stands as a classic masterpiece.

Performed with deep emotion on a recital stage, it is sure to draw the audience in.

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Fantasiestücke, Op. 12 No. 2: FlyingRobert Schumann

Schumann: Fantasiestücke, Op. 12, Aufschwung / Tomomi Okumura

Robert Schumann’s masterpiece “Fantasiestücke, Op.

12 No.

2: Aufschwung (Soaring).” It’s a piece you often hear at piano recitals, so many of you may already know it.

The real highlight of this work is, above all, the presence of the left hand.

Rather than a washed-out accompaniment, the low register must be played so that the sound doesn’t become muddy, supported by precise pedal work.

In addition, from measure 17 onward, the right hand presents challenges for players with smaller hands.

Although the technical level is around intermediate, it’s a highly effective and impressive piece to listen to, so be sure to check it out.

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Arabesque in C major, Op. 18Robert Schumann

Schumann – Arabesque in C major, Op.18 – pianomaedaful

A piano miniature composed in 1839 by the Romantic master Robert Schumann.

It is characterized by an elegant, feminine style and is known as a delicate piece for ladies.

Employing a rondo form in which the main theme returns, it features an appealing alternation between a gentle, lyrical principal section and more intense episodes.

Beginning with a light, graceful melody, passing through a somewhat somber middle passage, it concludes in a dreamy, tranquil atmosphere.

Reflecting Schumann’s inner emotions and artistic contemplation, this work combines elegance with expressive richness and is recommended as a striking recital piece.

Play of WaterMaurice Ravel

Nobuyuki Tsujii / Ravel: Jeux d’eau (Fountains/Playing Water)

Jeux d’eau, completed in 1901 while French composer Maurice Ravel was studying at the Paris Conservatoire, is also known for being dedicated to his teacher, Gabriel Fauré.

Premiered in 1902 alongside Ravel’s signature piece Pavane for a Dead Princess, it was at times derided back then for its complex sonorities as “dissonant.” Today, however, its shimmering, water-like melodies captivate many listeners.

It’s a perfect piece for those who love delicate works or want to experience Ravel’s enigmatic sound world.

Waltz No. 1 in E-flat major, Op. 18 “Grande valse brillante”Frederic Chopin

Nobuyuki Tsujii plays Chopin’s Waltz No.1 “Grande valse brillante”

A waltz with a strikingly elegant melody.

Composed by Chopin in 1833, this piece is among his most popular waltzes and is often featured in recitals.

Combining the quintessential Chopinesque grace and brilliance, its character perfectly suits a woman’s delicate sensibility.

Beginning with a fanfare-like introduction and unfolding into a brilliant main theme, its structure captures the listener’s heart and never lets go.

From a technical standpoint, focusing on producing a beautiful tone through diligent practice will result in a more captivating performance.