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.
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- Robert Schumann | Introduction to his famous and representative works
- Masterpieces of the bolero. Recommended popular pieces in bolero form and outstanding performances.
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- [Orchestra] Introducing famous and popular pieces
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- A masterpiece by Alexander Borodin. Popular classical music.
Rachmaninoff masterpieces. Recommended Rachmaninoff pieces (31–40)
From “Fantasy Miniatures,” No. 1: ElegySergei Rachmaninov
Sergei Rachmaninoff, the world-renowned composer and pianist born in Russia, wrote many works whose melodies are not only beautiful but steeped in sorrow.
There are countless Rachmaninoff pieces suitable for introduction in this article, but the one featured here is the first piece, “Élégie,” from his 1892 solo piano set Morceaux de fantaisie.
While the second piece, “Prelude,” may be more famous, the beauty and poignancy of the melody in “Élégie” are equally remarkable.
Centered on left-hand arpeggiated figures, the music unfolds with a flowing, melancholic grace that is truly gorgeous.
To think that Rachmaninoff completed such a work at the young age of 19—his talent can only be described as astonishing.
13 Preludes, Op. 32 No. 5 in G majorSergei Rachmaninov
Sergei Rachmaninoff’s 13 Preludes, Op.
32, completed in 1910.
Despite his extremely busy performance schedule, it is said that he composed this set over a short period during a calm interval.
No.
5 in G major is a delicate piece in which a gentle melody overlays a left-hand accompaniment that, though in a major key, imparts a certain sense of instability.
When practicing, focus on sound quality: align the evenness of long trills and rapidly moving passages, and aim for clarity without muddiness.
Suite No. 2 for Two Pianos “Tarantella”Sergei Rachmaninov
It’s a cool yet passionate piece that combines strength and richness while constantly shimmering with Rachmaninoff’s signature sparkle.
You’ll be captivated from the very beginning.
After the failed premiere of his Symphony No.
1, Rachmaninoff fell into a slump and went through a period where he couldn’t compose.
This piece dates from the time when he was beginning to recover.
Song Collection of 14, No. 14: VocaliseSergei Rachmaninov
Vocalise is a singing technique used mainly for vocal exercises, in which one sings only vowels such as “ah,” and this Rachmaninoff piece also has no lyrics.
It was originally written for solo voice and piano accompaniment, but the composer later created an orchestral version himself.
There are many arrangements, including a solo piano version and duet versions for a solo instrument such as cello or violin with piano accompaniment.
In arranged versions, the piece is often transposed to E minor.
Variation 18 from Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini for Piano and OrchestraSergei Rachmaninov
It’s a masterpiece composed for piano and orchestra.
Based on Niccolò Paganini’s 24 Caprices, it unfolds in 24 variations.
In particular, the 18th variation is a highly popular piece that captivates many listeners with its graceful, enchanting melody and harmony.
Rachmaninoff completed the work in just seven weeks during the summer of 1934 at his home in Switzerland.
It premiered in November 1934 with the Philadelphia Orchestra, and it’s said he drank crème de menthe before the performance to calm his nerves.
This piece is recommended for those who want to play gently yet romantically, while consciously bringing out the melodic line within the chords.
Rachmaninoff’s masterpieces. Recommended Rachmaninoff pieces (41–50)
Piano Concerto No. 2 in C minor, Op. 18 – II. Andante (Second Movement)Sergei Rachmaninov
Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No.
2 in C minor, Op.
18 is the work that brought him widespread recognition as a concerto composer.
In contrast to the vigorous first movement, the second movement is striking for its serene, prayer-like, and sublime atmosphere, and even the piano part alone offers an enchanting beauty.
Although Rachmaninoff did not leave a solo piano version, various arrangements have been published.
Choose one that suits your level, and enjoy playing the smoothly flowing melodies and the characteristically Rachmaninoffian harmonic shifts.
Fantasy Pieces, Op. 3 No. 2 “Prelude”Sergei Rachmaninov
A piano piece composed around the age of 19 by the Russia-born Sergei Rachmaninoff, famous under the name “The Bells.” It is one of his signature works.
The weighty opening chords resound like tolling bells, and the ominous atmosphere is perfect for Halloween! In the middle section, the fierce triplets heighten unease and tension, sending chills down your spine.
In the West it’s affectionately known as “The Bells of Moscow,” and it was said to be invariably requested as an encore at Rachmaninoff’s recitals.
How about using it as BGM for a Halloween party or as accompaniment when telling scary stories? Listen to this piece, and you’re sure to experience a truly special mood.