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Lovely classics

Rachmaninoff’s masterpieces. Recommended pieces by Rachmaninoff.

Sergei Rachmaninoff is one of the composers who represent Russia.

Although his talent was recognized by fellow Russian composer Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninoff once experienced a setback in his musical career.

Perhaps because his works were born from that state of mind and environment, they resonate with people today as well—their wistful, fleeting, and at times passionate style captivates everyone who listens.

This time, I’ve selected pieces ranging from symphonies performed by orchestra to vocal works and piano pieces.

Even when you hear a piece you don’t know, you might find yourself thinking, “Ah, this is Rachmaninoff.”

Please give them a listen.

Rachmaninoff’s masterpieces. Recommended Rachmaninoff pieces (91–100)

Prelude in G minor, Op. 23 No. 5Sergei Rachmaninov

Yuja Wang – Rachmaninov: Prelude in G Minor, Op. 23, No. 5 (Live at Philharmonie, Berlin / 2018)
Prelude in G minor, Op. 23 No. 5Sergei Rachmaninov

Completed in 1901 by the Russian musician Sergei Rachmaninoff, this work is a powerful piece that symbolizes Rachmaninoff’s Russian nationalism.

It is characterized by rich chords and enchanting melodies, and is structured with a march-like opening, a melancholic middle section, and a recapitulation of the initial theme.

Despite its grandeur, the fact that it ends softly is striking.

Although highly challenging, it may be the perfect piano piece for those who wish to experience Russian music.

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Vocalise, Op. 34 No. 14Sergei Rachmaninov

Originally written as a song, it is sung without lyrics using only the vowel “A.” Its wistful, romantic melody highlights the beauty of the female voice.

Among Rachmaninoff’s vocal works it is very well known, has been performed by various singers, and has also been arranged for piano.

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Rachmaninoff’s masterpieces. Recommended Rachmaninoff pieces (101–110)

Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op. 43Sergei Rachmaninov

PTNA 2018 Competition, Special Grade Final / Bronze Prize – Yukiko Furumi: Rachmaninoff: Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op. 43
Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op. 43Sergei Rachmaninov

Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op.

43, by the great master of the Russian Romantic era Sergei Rachmaninoff, is a work for piano and orchestra based on the final piece of 19th-century legendary violinist Niccolò Paganini’s 24 Caprices.

Its sequence of 24 varied variations—by turns passionate, virtuosic, and at times even humorous—never fails to captivate the listener.

Among them, the most famous is Variation 18, notable for its beautiful melody.

Gentle yet somehow imbued with a romantic aura, it leaves a lasting impression.

This work distills Rachmaninoff’s creativity and transcendental technique, and can truly be called one of his signature masterpieces.

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In conclusion

How was it? Sergei Rachmaninoff is one of those composers so famous that even people who don’t usually listen to classical music have heard his name.

Born into a musically gifted family and recognized by fellow Russian composer Tchaikovsky, he nevertheless experienced a major setback as a musician.

Perhaps because of the doubts and inner turmoil he faced in that environment and state of mind, his music often reflects a fleeting, heartrending beauty that can at times erupt into passionate intensity.

Even if you don’t recognize this piece by name, you might find that, once you listen, it unmistakably feels like Rachmaninoff.

I encourage you to explore the many different worlds of Rachmaninoff.