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: Pieces You Want to Listen to and Play! Beloved Classical Works (111–120)
Waltz No. 6 in D-flat major “Minute Waltz”Frederic Chopin
Written for solo piano, this piece is characterized by its lively and brilliant melody.
The rapid right-hand scales combine exquisitely with the left hand’s steady waltz rhythm, as if depicting a playful puppy scampering about.
Composed between 1846 and 1848, it was dedicated to Countess Delfina Potocka.
Although the performance time is relatively short—about one and a half to two minutes—the piece demands advanced technique and expressive nuance.
It’s recommended not only for classical music enthusiasts but also for those learning piano performance.
It has also been used as background music in films and anime, making it beloved by a wide audience.
Etude Op. 10 No. 12 “Revolutionary”Frederic Chopin
Frédéric Chopin, a great composer who has created many masterpieces with his fantastical and highly individual compositions.
Though he boasts an astonishing number of celebrated works, the one I especially recommend is Etude Op.
10 No.
12, “Revolutionary.” Its chief appeal lies in the intensely dramatic melody that erupts right from the opening.
It’s a piece so famous that nearly everyone has heard it at least once, but if you sit down and listen closely, you’ll be struck anew by its overwhelming power.
Be sure to check it out.
Grand WaltzFrederic Chopin
An impressive waltz that blends splendid brilliance with elegance.
It begins with a fanfare-like melody, setting a bright and refreshing mood.
The work beautifully fuses the virtuosic elements and lyricism characteristic of Frédéric Chopin, brimming with charm that captivates listeners.
Distinguished by its dazzling melodies and rhythmic performance, it can be considered a masterpiece that fully draws out the piano’s expressive power.
Published in 1833, this piece reflects influences from the Viennese music scene while shining with Chopin’s unique individuality.
It is highly recommended for those who wish to take on the challenge of piano performance or experience the allure of classical music.
Joy of LoveFritz Kreisler
It is a light, dance-like piece that incorporates elements of the traditional Viennese waltz, characterized by a bright and cheerful melody.
The work conveys joy and delight to the listener, expressing a sense of happiness that wells up from deep within.
Composed as part of the “Three Old Viennese Dances” published in 1905, it was initially presented as a work by a 19th-century composer.
While it is often performed as a violin and piano duo, there are also arrangements for solo piano and other instrumental combinations.
Widely cherished as a classic of classical music, it is frequently used in films, television programs, and commercials.
With its lively, sparkling melody, this piece is also recommended for beginners to classical music.
Etude No. 13 in A-flat major, Op. 25 No. 1 “Aeolian Harp”Frederic Chopin
This piece, which evokes the breath of spring, is characterized by a succession of flowing arpeggios.
The unceasing stream of notes in the right hand resembles the sound of a harp swaying in the wind.
Interwoven within it is a delicate melody spun by the left hand, calling to mind a pastoral landscape.
Composed between 1836 and 1837, this work, while a technical étude, pursues profound musical expression.
The performance time is about two minutes and thirty seconds, yet within that brief span, artistry and virtuosity are condensed.
It is recommended not only for piano students but also for anyone seeking solace in beautiful music.
Passacaglia Harpsichord Suite No. 7 (HWV 432)Georg Friedrich Händel
This piece encapsulates the charm of Baroque music.
Built on a four-bar theme, it unfolds through 15 variations in which rhythm, melody, and harmony are artfully transformed.
Amid its majestic atmosphere, a rich musicality shines through, gripping the listener’s heart.
It is also popular as a keyboard study piece and is recommended for those who have just begun learning the piano.
As you savor the process by which complex music emerges from a simple theme, you can experience the profound depth of Baroque music.
It is a work that conveys the timeless appeal of Handel’s music.
Burgmüller 25 Progressive Pieces, Op. 100, No. 19 “Ave Maria”Johann Burgmüller
This is a religious piece conceived with the image of a choir’s voices resounding through a cathedral church.
It possesses a solemn, devout atmosphere, and its rich harmonies leave a striking impression.
Published in Paris in 1851, the work is characterized by a beautiful melody imbued with the spirit of prayer.
By skillfully interweaving four-part harmony with three-part passages, it evokes a sonorous texture reminiscent of a cathedral’s reverberation.
The harmonic shifts are richly colored, illuminating the piece like the light through stained glass.
It is recommended for those who seek healing through music or who are interested in sacred music.
It also serves as an excellent study material for those wishing to learn pedal technique.
Combining an elegant ambience with profound spirituality, this work is sure to resonate in the hearts of listeners.