Bedřich Smetana Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Concert Etude “By the Seashore”Bedřich Smetana15rank/position

Jitka Čechová | B. Smetana – On the Sea Shore – Concert Etude in G sharp minor, Op. 17

By the Seashore, Concert Etude (Na břehu mořském “vzpomínka” koncertní etuda) in G-sharp minor, Op.

17.

Smetana was active as a pianist before he was known as a composer and left many piano works.

Performed by Czech pianist Jitka Čechová.

At the Seashore, Concert Etude in G-sharp minor, Op. 17Bedřich Smetana16rank/position

B. Smetana / Concert Etude, Op. 17 “By the Sea” — pf. Hitomi Ito

Among the gems of Czech national composer Bedřich Smetana’s piano works, the Concert Etude “On the Seashore” stands out for its virtuosic beauty.

Composed in 1861 and inspired by his years in Sweden, this piece is a transcendental etude that reflects the influence of his idol Franz Liszt.

Its structure unfolds with dynamic figurations evocative of ocean waves throughout, revealing Smetana’s exceptional talent as a pianist and his profound love for his homeland.

The melodic beauty—especially in the deft incorporation of Czech folk elements—is extraordinary.

Let the imagery come to life as you immerse yourself in Smetana’s musical world!

Andante in E-flat majorBedřich Smetana17rank/position

Smetana – Album Leaves – Andante in E flat major

Bedřich Smetana is one of the leading composers of 19th-century Czech music.

From an early age he showed musical talent, and he contributed to the development of Czech music through operas and other orchestral works.

He was also an excellent pianist, leaving behind beautiful and moving pieces for the piano.

Andante in E-flat major is a piece notable for its limpid melody that evokes a calm, beautiful landscape.

It brings peace and gentleness to the listener’s heart.

This work is recommended for those who wish to enjoy romantic expression and savor a rich sonority.

SonataBedřich Smetana18rank/position

Smetana: Sonata and Rondo (Argerich, Zilberstein, D.& A. Gerzenberg)

Bedřich Smetana, the great Czech composer.

While he is known for his operas and symphonic poems, he was also an excellent pianist, leaving behind piano works characterized by beautiful melodies and virtuosic passages.

Composed in his youth in 1846, the Sonata is a passionate work for two pianos, eight hands.

Strongly reflecting the influence of Romantic music, it is an ambitious piece that already showcases his distinctive musical voice.

With its rich sonorities and delicate touch, this work offers a full experience of Smetana’s musical world—perfect for those who love passionate Romantic music and for anyone wishing to discover the appeal of Smetana’s piano works!

Fantasia on a Czech Folk SongBedřich Smetana19rank/position

Smetana: Fantasia on Czech Folk Songs pf. Seiju Sasaki

Smetana, often called the father of Czech national music, displayed musical talent from an early age and created numerous works celebrating Czech culture and history.

Fantasia on Czech Folk Songs is a solo piano piece based on Czech folk melodies, imbued with Smetana’s patriotism and passion.

It masterfully fuses folk-inspired melodies with refined pianism, resulting in a warm work that evokes the Czech landscape and the lives of its people.

It is recommended not only for classical music enthusiasts but also for those interested in folk music.

Czech Dances, Book IIBedřich Smetana20rank/position

B. Smetana – Czech Dances, Book 2 (Firkušný)

Bedřich Smetana, a composer who inherited the traditions of Czech folk music and created uniquely original piano works.

His Czech Dances, Book II consists of ten dances—a gem of a collection that pays homage to Czech folk music while elevating it into the realm of classical art.

Each piece has its own distinctive character and rhythm, inviting listeners into a diverse musical world.

Through his music, Smetana expresses both Czech national identity and his affection for his own roots.

This collection is highly recommended for those who wish to savor the beauty of folk-tinged melodies and harmonies.

From Slavonic Dances, Series II: No. 1 and No. 8Bedřich Smetana21rank/position

Romana Cholastová: Smetana – Furiant, Obkrocak, from Czech Dances II

From Czech Dances, Book II (České tance 2): No.

1: Furiant; No.

8: Obkročák.

The collection consists of ten pieces, including No.

9: Sousedská and No.

10: Skočná.

Piano: Romana Cholastová.