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Bedřich Smetana Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Bedřich Smetana was a composer regarded as a pioneer who developed the national school of music in his homeland, the Czech lands.

Hailed as the father of Czech music, he is also well known in Japan as the composer of “The Moldau,” often sung in choral settings.

It is said that he was also highly skilled as a performer, having given a piano recital at the age of six.

This time, we present a ranking of Bedřich Smetana’s most popular works—why not immerse yourself in his music, which is celebrated internationally?

Bedřich Smetana Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (41–50)

Dance of the Comedians, Act 3 from the opera The Bartered BrideBedřich Smetana43rank/position

Bedřich Smetana – Dance of the Comedians from The Bartered Bride, conducted by Tomasz Chmiel
Dance of the Comedians, Act 3 from the opera The Bartered BrideBedřich Smetana

One of Smetana’s signature works, the opera The Bartered Bride.

The piece that appears in Act 3 is a lively, spirited instrumental number.

It was composed to accompany the scene in which a troupe of traveling performers arrives in the village and puts on a show.

While incorporating elements of Czech folk dance, it avoids direct quotation of folk songs, instead using Smetana’s own compositional techniques to convey the atmosphere of the Bohemian countryside.

Since its premiere in May 1866, it has become one of the most popular numbers in the entire opera and is often performed on its own in concerts.

Highly recommended for anyone interested in Czech music and culture.

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Concert Etude in C major, Op. 12Bedřich Smetana44rank/position

Bedřich Smetana – Concert Etude in C major (audio + sheet music)
Concert Etude in C major, Op. 12Bedřich Smetana

Although the Czech composer Bedřich Smetana is best known for his operas and orchestral works, he also left outstanding contributions in the realm of piano music.

Composed in 1858, the Concert Etude in C major, Op.

12, is a highly advanced solo piano piece both technically and expressively.

Elements of Czech folk music are skillfully woven into its Romantic style, vividly reflecting the composer’s musical sensibility.

Though an etude, it is rich in musicality that goes far beyond mere display of virtuosity.

It is an excellent choice to feature in a concert and to refine one’s expressive piano technique.

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