Ludwig van Beethoven Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Piano Sonata No. 8 in C minor, Op. 13 “Pathétique,” 1st movementLudwig van Beethoven8rank/position

[First Steinway Recording] Beethoven – Piano Sonata No. 8 “Pathétique” First Movement - Classical - Beethoven - Pathetique Piano Sonata No. 8 Op. 13 - CANACANA

Ludwig van Beethoven’s Piano Sonata No.

8 in C minor, Op.

13 “Pathétique,” composed in 1798, is a work that gives voice to his suffering and the sorrows of youth.

Among its movements, the first is marked by dramatic emotional shifts and demands profound expressiveness.

Beginning with a grave introduction, it unfolds into a powerful, passionate main section, then returns to a closing section that draws out a quiet, tender emotion.

Performing this piece is a major challenge for middle school students, but the sense of accomplishment upon mastering it will be exceptional.

In practice, start by thoroughly grasping the structure and understanding the emotional character of each section.

Also, pay close attention to dynamics and articulation so you can properly convey both intense passion and quiet melancholy.

Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp minor, Op. 27 No. 2 “Moonlight,” First MovementLudwig van Beethoven9rank/position

Beethoven “Moonlight Sonata” (1 mvt.) by Claudio Arrau

Ludwig van Beethoven’s Piano Sonata No.

14 in C-sharp minor, Op.

27, No.

2, widely known as the “Moonlight Sonata.” The first movement, which unfolds at a gentle pace as if expressing profound sorrow, is a masterpiece that invariably appears on lists of “beautiful piano works.” The nickname “Moonlight Sonata” was taken from words spoken by a music critic after Beethoven’s death.

Although it is unclear what the composer himself envisioned, is there any expression more fitting for this piece than “moonlight?”

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Ode to JoyLudwig van Beethoven10rank/position

Ode to Joy / Beethoven [Piano] Beginner Classical / With Reference Performance

It’s the familiar melody that everyone has heard at least once—the choral section from the final movement of Beethoven’s Symphony No.

9.

Premiered in Vienna in 1824, this grand work praises joy and brotherhood, and has been performed worldwide as a symbol of peace and solidarity.

In Japan, it’s cherished as a year-end tradition, affectionately called “Daiku” (the Ninth), and loved by many.

If you choose a simple arrangement with the melody in the right hand and chords in the left, even beginners can take on the piece without difficulty.

The joy of playing this nostalgic tune with your own hands will add color to your daily life.

How about starting with the memorable “Mi Mi Fa So” motif?

Piano Sonata No. 23, Op. 57 “Appassionata,” Third MovementLudwig van Beethoven11rank/position

[FAZIOLI] Beethoven “Appassionata” – 3rd movement / Piano Sonata No. 23 “Appassionata,” 3rd movement by Beethoven

Ludwig van Beethoven’s masterpiece Piano Sonata No.

23, Op.

57 “Appassionata,” Third Movement.

Alongside the “Pathétique” and “Moonlight,” it is one of his most popular and well-known sonatas and is frequently featured in concert programs.

This work can be considered a prototype of Beethoven’s most famous piece, the “Fate” Symphony, and it contains many of his characteristic emotional expressions.

Naturally, the performance difficulty rises accordingly, but it is unquestionably a highly compelling work to listen to, so be sure to check it out.

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Piano Sonata No. 8 “Pathétique,” 3rd movementLudwig van Beethoven12rank/position

Beethoven – Piano Sonata No. 8 “Pathétique,” 3rd Movement – CANACANA

A piece with a powerful, passionate character and an imposing aura that is truly captivating.

From its striking opening, the gripping melody recurs throughout, alternating between tension and release to naturally draw listeners into its musical world.

Highly acclaimed since its publication in 1799 and still performed worldwide today, the work stands out for its dynamic expressiveness and rich shifts in tone color.

It has frequently appeared in TV shows and films, and its influence is such that Billy Joel even quoted its melody in “This Night.” Designed to showcase the piano’s full appeal, it’s an ideal choice for ambitious performers looking to refine rapid passages and expressive nuance.

Piano Sonata in D major, Op. 6, for four handsLudwig van Beethoven13rank/position

Beethoven: Sonata in D-major opus. 6 for piano four hands – Lucas & Arthur Jussen

A work for piano four hands by the great classical composer Ludwig van Beethoven, published in 1797.

It is a relatively short two-movement sonata characterized by a bright and lively tone.

The first movement has a spirited, energetic sense of tempo, while the second features a calm and elegant melody.

Because its technical difficulty is relatively low, it can be played not only by professionals but also by intermediate players.

The piece was conceived for small-scale settings—such as salon culture of the time and domestic musicales.

It emphasizes the shared joy of performance, allowing two players to breathe together and craft a unified interpretation.

It’s a recommended addition to the repertoire of anyone who enjoys playing the piano.

Six Variations on ‘A Vacant Heart’, WoO 70Ludwig van Beethoven14rank/position

PTNA 2013 National Competition Finals / D Class Gold Prize Sakura Watanabe Beethoven: From Six Variations, WoO 70

Ludwig van Beethoven’s Six Variations on “Nel cor più non mi sento,” WoO 70, is a work created during a time of personal struggle.

It is a set of variations on a piece by the Italian opera composer Giovanni Paisiello, and it was published two weeks after the famous Heiligenstadt Testament was written in October 1802.

Variation form can be challenging in many respects—expression, technique, memorization, and more—but this piece, with its familiar, pleasantly tickling melody, should be approachable even for children taking on their first set of variations.