Piano Masterpieces: Music you’ll want to listen to and play—beloved classic works
Do you have any memorable piano pieces that make you feel healed when you listen to them, or that you’d like to play someday?
A favorite piece can soothe a mind clouded by stress or anxiety.
In this article, we’ve carefully selected world-famous piano works from among the classics that could become your go-to soothing track.
Even if you’re not very familiar with classical music, we’ve chosen only well-known pieces you’ve likely heard somewhere before, so please enjoy reading to the end!
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Piano Masterpieces: Must-Listen and Must-Play! Beloved Classical Works (71–80)
11 New Bagatelles for Piano, Op. 119 No. 8 in C majorLudwig van Beethoven
This short piece in C major unfolds a rich musical world within just 20 measures.
The balance between melody and accompaniment is exquisite, and the smooth harmonic progression creates a pleasant atmosphere.
Unexpected harmonic shifts are woven into the work, bringing a fresh sense of wonder to the listener.
Composed between 1820 and 1822, it is characterized by an accessible melody and a simple structure.
It is recommended for those who want to practice legato and staccato expression, or refine their musicality with a short piece.
It’s a perfect choice for moments when you want to enjoy music in a calm, relaxed mood.
Piano Sonata No. 19, Op. 49-1, First MovementLudwig van Beethoven
A gentle and approachable piece, it is said to have been written around 1797 for Beethoven’s pupils and friends.
Consisting of two movements, the first is marked by a calm, tender mood with a soothing melody, while the second is bright and lively, its buoyant 6/8 rhythm delightfully resonant.
It can be enjoyed without demanding advanced piano technique, allowing children, adults, and music lovers alike to fully appreciate Beethoven’s charm.
It is an ideal work for music enthusiasts and beginning pianists as a first encounter with Beethoven’s compositions.
Piano Sonata No. 20, Op. 49 No. 2, Second MovementLudwig van Beethoven
This piece is notable for its graceful and approachable melody in triple meter.
Composed around 1795–1796, it features a warm character written for friends and pupils.
Adopting the minuet form, it exudes a delicate and tranquil atmosphere.
Its melody was later reused in the Septet, Op.
20, suggesting that the composer himself was fond of this musical idea.
Renowned pianists such as Daniel Barenboim and Boris Giltburg have performed it, drawing out new charms through varied interpretations.
With its calm mood and familiar melody, it is recommended for a wide range of players, from those just beginning piano practice to advanced performers.
Piano Sonata No. 25, Op. 79, Movement IIILudwig van Beethoven
A gem of a masterpiece, performed at an andante tempo with an elegant 9/8 rhythm.
Its gentle melody, like a swaying boat, evokes a soothing sense of being rocked by calm waves.
Though composed in 1809, its appeal has not faded, continuing to captivate many pianists.
This movement is brief at just 34 measures, yet it condenses delicate emotional expression, leaving a strong impression with its romantic and lyrical atmosphere.
Structured in ABA form, the piece fully draws out the piano’s expressive power, and its graceful melody resonates deeply.
Highly recommended for lovers of the piano, it is ideal for those who wish to spend quiet moments in contemplation with music.
Piano Sonata No. 12 in F major, K. 332 (K6 300k), No. 1Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
This is a work whose elegant melodies and rhythms, left by a genius of the Classical era, resonate deeply in the heart.
Composed in 1783 and structured in three movements, it is notable for its refreshing F-major sonority and gentle variations.
The beautiful music, woven from an approachable theme and refined counterpoint, is sure to soothe listeners.
The second movement, which was also used in the film “Immortal Beloved,” is characterized by delicate ornamentation and a richly expressive melody.
Combining Mozart’s characteristic brightness and lightness with technical intrigue, this piece is recommended for everyone who enjoys playing the piano.
Piano Sonata No. 12 in F major, K. 332 (K6. 300k), No. 2Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
In the blink of an eye, a wonderful melody rushes to your ears—this is a refreshing piano sonata by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
Completed in 1783 when he returned to Salzburg with his wife Constanze, it is a masterpiece memorably featured in the film Immortal Beloved.
The bright and dynamic first movement, the graceful and delicate second movement, and the light, sprightly third movement each distill their own allure.
Brimming with expressive richness, this work lets you savor Mozart’s uniquely beautiful melodies and harmonies.
It’s a perfect choice for those who want to relish the essence of piano performance or experience the splendor of classical music.
Piano Sonata No. 16 in C major, K. 545, No. 2Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
This piece, notable for its graceful triple-meter melody, was composed in June 1788 and is intended for beginner-level learners.
The second movement in G major features a beautifully expressive, aria-like character and a simple, straightforward left-hand accompaniment.
While technically approachable, it demands a singing melodic line and delicate expressiveness.
Its calm tempo allows for unhurried playing, making it an excellent choice for those wishing to refine their expressivity or experience the charm of classical music.
The emotional contours created by the shifts in key are also captivating, offering ample joy in performance.