Ludwig van Beethoven Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Song of JoyLudwig van Beethoven22rank/position

First Piano Recital [Age 5] [Ode to Joy]

Ode to Joy, based on the choral theme that appears in the fourth movement of German composer Ludwig van Beethoven’s masterpiece Symphony No.

9.

It’s also known as “Hymn to Joy,” among other titles.

There are many arrangements of this piece that are approachable even for beginners who have just started learning piano, and it is frequently performed at recitals.

When you’ve only just begun practicing, coordinating different movements with both hands is quite a challenge, but if you choose a simple structure—such as melody and bass—you should be able to perform admirably even at your first recital.

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Ryo

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Armand in A major, WoO 81Ludwig van Beethoven23rank/position

Beethoven, Allemande, WoO 81

Composed in Vienna in 1793, this gracefully flowing dance in 4/4 time follows a traditional German style that was popular from the 16th to the 17th century.

The brilliant melody in the right hand blends beautifully with the calm accompaniment in the left, offering rich musical expression despite its brief duration.

Within its gentle flow, the work weaves in Beethoven’s distinctive individuality, making it enjoyable to play in a relaxed mood.

Its simple yet captivating melody is perfect for those who want to practice the piano with pleasure or explore the world of classical music.

It is also well known through performances by distinguished pianists such as Gianluca Cascioli and Ronald Brautigam.

Piano Sonata No. 14 “Moonlight”Ludwig van Beethoven24rank/position

Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 14 “Moonlight”

Beethoven’s Piano Sonata No.

14, composed in 1801 and titled “Sonata quasi una fantasia,” is popularly known as the “Moonlight Sonata.” It acquired this nickname from a comment by the German music critic Ludwig Rellstab, though Beethoven himself likely did not intend it.

Beyond Beethoven, there are other classical pieces with “moon” in the title, such as Debussy’s Clair de Lune.

It might be enjoyable to compare different composers’ musical portrayals of the moon.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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Piano Sonata No. 1, Op. 2 No. 1, Fourth MovementLudwig van Beethoven25rank/position

Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 1, Movement IV [08_ A fierce, fast classical piano piece with sheet music and commentary]

This piece captivates with its powerful and passionate performance.

Written in cut time (2/2) at a prestissimo (very fast) tempo, its driving development—woven from triplet arpeggios and chordal pulsations—grabs the listener’s heart.

The contrast between piano and forte dynamics is used effectively, and the secondary theme, marked by sequential descending octaves, is striking and full of allure that draws in the entire hall.

Ludwig van Beethoven published this work in 1796 with Artaria in Vienna and dedicated it to his teacher, Franz Joseph Haydn.

Highly recommended as a concert repertoire piece for performers confident in their technique, it is sure to captivate any audience.

Violin Sonata No. 9 “Kreutzer”Ludwig van Beethoven26rank/position

Beethoven.Violin.Sonata.No.9.Op.47.kreutzer.[Anne-Sophie Mutter.-.Lambert.Orkis]

A passionate piece by Ludwig van Beethoven in which the piano and violin spar as if striking sparks.

Composed during the period when Beethoven’s style was shifting into his so-called “heroic” middle phase, it is distinguished by an energy that powerfully stirs the listener’s soul.

Its overwhelming drama inspired the great writer Tolstoy and is known for having given rise to a novel of the same name.

Since its score was published in 1805, numerous recordings have been made, including the album “Beethoven Violin Concerto & Violin Sonata No.

9 ‘Kreutzer.’” When you want to push your concentration to the limit or need a catalyst for creative work, there may be no piece more fitting than this.

Six Ecossaises, WoO 83Ludwig van Beethoven27rank/position

42nd Prizewinner Commemorative Concert A1 Category [Gold Prize] Ruka Tsugikuni / Beethoven: Six Écossaises, WoO 83

Beethoven’s masterpiece “Six Ecossaises, WoO 83,” which incorporates the Scottish dance ecossaise.

Known as a beginner-friendly work, it’s one that many novices tackle after “Für Elise” and the first movement of the “Moonlight” Sonata.

The key to this piece lies in its light, buoyant rhythm.

Without solid fundamentals, the sound can become unbalanced, so pay close attention to the tempo markings and dynamics.

Adding expressive nuance will instantly elevate the performance, so give it a try.

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Ryo

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7 Ländler WoO 11 No. 7Ludwig van Beethoven28rank/position

Beethoven, 7 Ländler, WoO 11, No 7

A piece in D major distinguished by a lively 3/4 rhythm and a friendly, memorable melody.

Despite its simple structure, it overflows with the elegant atmosphere beloved at Viennese balls.

Composed in 1799, this gem was written by Ludwig van Beethoven in response to requests from high society.

Elements of folk dance are skillfully woven into the flowing melody, beautifully balancing the dignity of classical music with a rustic charm.

It’s an ideal introductory piece for those just beginning piano lessons—fun to practice and highly useful for learning the fundamentals of music.