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Music that’s good for prenatal care: classic masterpieces and popular recommended songs to help mom and baby relax

Many expectant mothers may feel, “I want to do something for my baby!” and start prenatal education.

It’s said that from around 18–20 weeks, when mothers begin to feel fetal movements, a baby’s brain and senses develop rapidly, so this is a recommended time to start prenatal education.

With that in mind, we’ve gathered music that’s perfect for prenatal listening, focusing on classical masterpieces.

Of course, it’s important for your baby to hear beautiful music, but it’s also very important for the mother to relax and spend her pregnancy with a calm mind.

Please enjoy soothing moments listening to music together with the baby in your belly.

Your warm, happy feelings will surely be conveyed to your baby.

Music that’s good for prenatal care: Classic masterpieces and recommended popular songs that help moms and babies relax (21–30)

Dance of the TartarsArekusandoru Borodin

Borodin: Polovtsian Dances from the opera Prince Igor
Dance of the TartarsArekusandoru Borodin

A genius composer who left many masterpieces as a member of the Russian Five while holding titles as a chemist and physician, Alexander Borodin.

Among his works, “Polovtsian Dances” is one of the most famous.

It is included in Act II of the opera Prince Igor and is renowned for being particularly popular within the operatic repertoire.

Put simply, it depicts the joy of slaves on the verge of liberation, and throughout it is unified by melodies overflowing with a sense of happiness.

With its brilliant character and rich instrumentation, it is also recommended for prenatal listening.

DollyGABURIERU FŌRE

G. Fauré: Dolly, No. 1 Berceuse (for piano four hands)
DollyGABURIERU FŌRE

Gabriel Fauré, a French composer who epitomizes the 20th century.

His piano suite Dolly is often recommended for prenatal listening thanks to its gentle, memorable melodies.

The suite consists of six parts, and the first piece, Berceuse, is especially irresistible with its relaxing mood that, quite literally, could lull a baby to sleep.

Well-known among pianists as a duet piece, it’s also perfect for playing on the piano yourself for your baby!

Arabesque No. 1Kurōdo Dobyushī

Arabesque No. 1 / Debussy / Classic / Piano / CANACANA
Arabesque No. 1Kurōdo Dobyushī

Arabesque No.

1 is one of the signature works by Claude Debussy, a composer known for impressionist music.

As part of the piano set Two Arabesques, this piece—alongside Arabesque No.

2—is beloved for its familiar, easily recognizable melodies.

Musically, instead of aligning with the traditional classical dichotomy of major versus minor (in simple terms, “bright” versus “dark”), it captivates with a wavering sense of tonality that belongs to neither.

This original sound world—neither bright nor dark—seems like it could provide delightful stimulation even for babies!

AdagiettoGusutafu Mā rā

Adagietto from Mahler’s Symphony No. 5
AdagiettoGusutafu Mā rā

Gustav Mahler, the great composer who flourished in Vienna, is known as a master of symphonies and songs, and he had a profound influence on contemporary music.

Among his works, the one I recommend as good music for prenatal education is the Adagietto.

It was also used as the theme song for the film Death in Venice, so those familiar with movies may find it recognizable.

Its gradually intensifying progression from a relaxed opening will provide comfort not only for prenatal education but also for expectant mothers.

The Lucky BlacksmithGeorg Friedrich Händel

Haendel “The Harmonious Blacksmith” – Eri Mantani, piano
The Lucky BlacksmithGeorg Friedrich Händel

A piece composed by George Frideric Handel, who was active in an era before the piano had been invented.

It is one of the suites written for the harpsichord, the keyboard instrument of that time.

Its bright and lively character perfectly matches the image suggested by the title “The Harmonious Blacksmith,” making it a delight to listen to.

A simplified version with fewer notes is included in many beginner piano books, so it’s also very popular as a recital piece.

It might be nice to spend some calm time with your baby on the way and play it on the piano for them to hear.

Beautiful night, oh, night of love (Barcarolle from The Tales of Hoffmann)Jakku Offenbakku

Offenbach / Barcarolle from The Tales of Hoffmann (Offenbach - Barcarolle - from Tales of Hoffmann)
Beautiful night, oh, night of love (Barcarolle from The Tales of Hoffmann)Jakku Offenbakku

Jacques Offenbach, a composer who was active mainly in France.

His “Beautiful Night, Oh Night of Love,” affectionately known as the Barcarolle from The Tales of Hoffmann, is a beautiful operatic duet.

Set in 6/8 time, its waltz-like, expansive rhythm feels enriching to the heart.

While 4/4 time is standard in contemporary pop music, exposing listeners to a variety of meters—including unusual ones like this piece—may, in the long run, help broaden a baby’s musical sensibilities.

KareliaJan Shiberiusu

This is an orchestral work by the Finnish composer Jean Sibelius.

Sibelius composed Karelia after being inspired by the folk songs and legends of the Karelia region—considered the birthplace of the Finnish people—during his honeymoon visit there.

The warmth and gentleness often associated with Nordic design can be fully felt in this music as well.

While listening to this soothing music, which blends brilliance with rustic simplicity, may you enjoy calm, peaceful days together with your baby.