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.
- [Ultra-Advanced] Even challenging for advanced players! A curated selection of highly difficult piano pieces
- [Beginner-Friendly] Rachmaninoff’s Piano Pieces | A Curated Selection of Accessible Works!
- Sibelius’s famous piece. Popular classical music.
- [Advanced] Super cool if you can play it! Selection of famous piano pieces
- For Advanced Players: Showstopping Classics to Play at a Piano Recital
- [Masterpiece Classics] A special showcase of gem-like masterpieces so beautiful they’ll move you to tears
- Robert Schumann | Introduction to his famous and representative works
- Masterpieces of the bolero. Recommended popular pieces in bolero form and outstanding performances.
- [Violin] A curated selection of beloved classic masterpieces and popular pieces that continue to be cherished across eras
- Piano Masterpieces: Surprisingly Easy Despite Sounding Difficult!? A Curated Selection Perfect for Recitals
- [Orchestra] Introducing famous and popular pieces
- [For Advanced Players] A Curated Selection of Classical Masterpieces to Tackle at Piano Recitals
- A masterpiece by Alexander Borodin. Popular classical music.
Rachmaninoff’s masterpieces. Recommended Rachmaninoff pieces (21–30)
Lilac (A-flat major), Op. 21 No. 5Sergei Rachmaninov
Rachmaninoff’s homeland, Russia, is said to be awash with lilacs blooming everywhere around May each year.
Lush clusters of purple flowers and a sweet fragrance—this piece feels as if it transforms that romantic scene into sound.
Perfect as background music for a happy moment.
Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op. 43, Variation 18: Andante cantabileSergei Rachmaninov
Sergei Rachmaninoff, the great composer, was also a gifted pianist and produced many masterpieces during his lifetime.
Among them, the one I especially recommend for its moving beauty is the Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op.
43, Variation 18 “Andante cantabile.” A work often mentioned alongside it for its emotional impact is Vocalise, but whereas Vocalise features a melancholy, wistful melody, this piece is crafted with an inspiring melody that evokes hope—the complete opposite in character.
This is a wonderful place, Work 21-7Sergei Rachmaninov
It’s not very well known, but it’s considered a masterpiece among Russian songs.
A small piece filled with a gentle, sunlit brightness.
There’s also an arrangement for solo piano, and both versions will put you in a happy mood.
Give it a listen when you’re in the mood for Rachmaninoff at his bright and tranquil best.
Piano Concerto No. 4 in G minor, Op. 40Sergei Rachmaninov
It’s not as well known as his Piano Concertos No.
2 or 3, but it’s said to be one of the few pieces Rachmaninoff wrote after emigrating to America.
The progression of chords and the sparkling notes are, as always, Rachmaninoff’s strong suit.
Symphony No. 3 in A minor, Op. 44Sergei Rachmaninov
It is the final work among Rachmaninoff’s symphonies.
There is even an anecdote that two conductors competed for the premiere rights.
Unusually for Rachmaninoff, it features prominently a driving, rhythmic melodic line.
The work leaves an impression of grandeur and power.
Symphony No. 1 in D minor, Op. 13Sergei Rachmaninov
Often mentioned as if to be compared with the hugely successful Piano Concerto No.
2, this is a famous piece in its own way.
The scathing reviews at its premiere triggered Rachmaninoff’s descent into a nervous disorder.
While it doesn’t strongly convey Rachmaninoff’s characteristic, wistful romanticism, it does reveal a powerful side of his music.
Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom, Op. 3Sergei Rachmaninov
An unaccompanied sacred choral work composed for Orthodox prayer, similar to the All-Night Vigil.
For those who associate Rachmaninoff mainly with symphonies and piano pieces, it might feel a bit inaccessible.
However, it’s a piece that lets you fully savor the beauty of layered human voices, so I highly recommend giving it a listen.
It’s a work that makes the air of the place feel pure.