Ludwig van Beethoven Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Piano Sonata No. 8 in C minor, Op. 13-2 “Pathétique,” Second MovementLudwig van Beethoven64rank/position

Beethoven – Piano Sonata No. 8 “Pathétique,” Second Movement – Beethoven – Pathétique Piano Sonata No. 8, Op. 13-2 – CANACANA

Among Beethoven’s early piano sonatas, the second movement of the Piano Sonata No.

8 in C minor, Op.

13-2 “Pathétique,” is especially popular.

Its difficulty is around an intermediate level—advanced beginners can also take it on.

Because the piece is written in a four-voice texture reminiscent of a string quartet, you need to consider the balance among the parts.

The soprano line is the protagonist, so always practice with an awareness of the balance between the right and left hands.

It’s also recommended to practice the third movement before tackling the second movement.

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Ryo

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Piano Sonata No. 8 “Pathétique”Ludwig van Beethoven65rank/position

Beethoven Piano Sonata No. 8 in C minor, Op. 13 “Pathétique” Horowitz — Beethoven “Grande Sonate Pathétique”

Alongside the Moonlight and Appassionata, this Pathétique Sonata is known as one of the three great piano sonatas and stands among Beethoven’s most celebrated masterpieces.

As its title suggests, from the very beginning the piece overflows with a sense of tragic intensity, and the occasional impassioned passages further accentuate its pathos.

The second movement is frequently used in television commercials, so many listeners will likely find it familiar.

Piano Sonata No. 8 “Pathétique,” Second MovementLudwig van Beethoven66rank/position

Barenboim on Beethoven “Pathetique” 2nd movement

Composed by Ludwig van Beethoven around 1798, this piece was published in 1799 by Eder in Vienna and is widely known as one of Beethoven’s major early works.

Consisting of three movements, it condenses a rich variety of expression: a solemn introduction leading to dramatic development, a lyrical and beautiful melody, and a lively rondo form.

The second movement, in particular, is beloved for its beautiful melody and is frequently used in television and film, so many listeners may find it familiar.

It’s a perfect choice for graduation ceremony background music—the moving melody will make those important milestone moments even more memorable.

Piano Sonata No. 14 “Moonlight,” First MovementLudwig van Beethoven67rank/position

Nobuyuki Tsujii plays Beethoven:Piano Sonata No.14“Moonlight”I.Adagio sostenuto

This is one of Beethoven’s signature works, depicting a magical scene where the night’s silence and moonlight are reflected on the surface of a lake.

The beautiful melody woven by the left hand’s octaves and the right hand’s triplets soothes the listener and leaves a deep impression.

Completed in 1801 and dedicated in 1802 to one of Beethoven’s students, the piece departs from conventional movement arrangement, giving the whole work a distinctive sense of motion.

Performance directions calling for delicate playing with the damper raised further heighten its ethereal, dreamlike atmosphere.

It’s a perfect choice as quiet nighttime background music or for moments when you want to relax.

Piano Sonata No. 20 in G majorLudwig van Beethoven68rank/position

Beethoven: Sonata No.20 in G Major, Op.49 No.2 (Goode, Lewis)

We present a piano piece composed by the great master of classical music, Beethoven, specifically for beginners.

Written around 1795, its first edition was titled “Deux Sonates Faciles” (Two Easy Sonatas), and it is characterized by a concise, approachable style in two movements.

The first movement features a dignified tonic chord and a triplet motive, while the second movement is notable for a graceful, minuet-like melody.

Although relatively easy to perform, the piece showcases Beethoven’s compositional technique and aesthetic sensibility.

It is an excellent choice for those who have just started learning the piano or are newly interested in classical music.

With its bright, warm atmosphere, it is sure to captivate audiences at recitals.

Romance in E-flat majorLudwig van Beethoven69rank/position

Beethoven Romance No. 2 in F major, Op. 50

Ludwig van Beethoven, the composer of Fate with its striking “Da-da-da-DAAA!” motif, also wrote Romance in F major—a work with a different feel from his usual image.

As the title “Romance” suggests, its sweet, romantic melody is beautiful.

While F major is a bright key, there are moments where the music evokes sadness, making it a rewarding listen.

The collaboration with the orchestra further highlights the graceful melodic line of the Romance in F major.

It’s one of those classic violin pieces that anyone studying the violin will want to play at least once.

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Mayumi

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WaldsteinLudwig van Beethoven70rank/position

Beethoven: Waldstein (L. V. Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 21 “Waldstein” in C major, Op. 53) / Masaya Kamei

Ludwig van Beethoven, known both as the culmination of the Classical era and a forerunner of the Romantic era.

Completed in 1804, this work stands as a representative piece from his middle period, positioned at the outset of his heroic decade.

Dedicated to Count Ferdinand von Waldstein, Beethoven’s friend and patron, the three-movement sonata demands a high level of both technical and musical prowess.

With a first movement that opens in a strong rhythm and a bright C-major theme, a second movement of contemplative character, and a lively, invigorating finale in the third movement, each section has its own distinct personality.

It is a highly recommended piece for pianists with solid technique and expressive capability.