Johannes Brahms Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

String Sextet No. 2 in G majorJohannes Brahms15rank/position

Brahms – Streichsextett Nr. 2 | WDR Sinfonieorchester Chamber Players

Johannes Brahms’s String Sextet, composed in 1865, is one of his representative works.

It is notable for incorporating the so-called “Agathe motif,” said to convey his feelings for his former lover Agathe von Siebold.

Although purely an instrumental piece, Brahms’s inner conflicts and experiences in love are expressed in its timbres.

It premiered in Boston in October 1866 and was performed in Zurich the following month.

It remains beloved today, appearing, for example, in the final scene of the film The Cement Garden.

This work, with its deep emotion and rich harmonies, is sure to leave you with a warm feeling.

Six Pieces, Op. 118: No. 2, Intermezzo in A majorJohannes Brahms16rank/position

Brahms: 6 Pieces, Op. 118 No. 2, Intermezzo in A major / pf. Shohei Sekimoto

A piece from the set of piano miniatures Brahms composed in his later years.

Its gentle, serene melody evokes autumn and winter scenes, with a poignant yet beautiful tune that leaves a strong impression.

Composed in 1893, it was dedicated to his close friend Clara Schumann.

Structured in ternary form, the modulation to the minor key in the middle section creates a striking contrast.

Clear expression of the inner-voice melodic lines is required, making it recommended for those who wish to develop finger independence and refined expressivity.

It’s a piece I’d encourage anyone who wants to experience Brahms’s mature musicality to take on.

7 Fantasias, Op. 116: No. 6, Intermezzo in E majorJohannes Brahms17rank/position

Brahms: Intermezzo, Op. 116, No. 6 – Michael Stephen Brown, piano

This work is known as the first short piece from his late period, and today it is cherished by many classical music enthusiasts as a culmination of Brahms’s artistry.

Its difficulty as a piano piece is approachable even for beginners, and you’ll occasionally hear it at children’s piano recitals.

Because it employs a structure close to counterpoint, it’s also a great choice for learning fundamental and essential piano techniques.

I highly recommend giving it a try.

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Ryo

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Eight Pieces, Op. 76: No. 3, Intermezzo in A-flat majorJohannes Brahms18rank/position

Gila Goldstein plays Brahms Intermezzo op. 76/3

Among Brahms’s late works, the indispensable masterpiece Eight Pieces stands out—a set you’ll often hear at piano recitals.

From this collection, today I’d like to introduce the Intermezzo No.

3.

Alongside No.

7, No.

3 is known as one of the most approachable pieces in the set.

If you shape the musical flow not only through the melody but also by imagining the left-hand bass line as a driving force, your performance will gain a more three-dimensional quality.

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Ryo

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Scherzo from the F.A.E. SonataJohannes Brahms19rank/position

David Oistrakh – Brahms Scherzo in C minor (III. from FAE Sonate)

The opening violin somehow evokes a sense of fate, and the piano rides on the passage as well, making a strong impact.

Like a rondo, this passage repeats, and it concludes brilliantly in the final coda.

There are even rumors that it was created in collaboration with Schumann.

Brahms’ Lullaby (from Burnam Piano Method 4)Johannes Brahms20rank/position

[Complete Series] Burnam Piano Method Book 4 – Edna Mae Burnam’s Piano Course Book 4 (Complete)

A world-renowned piano method by Edna Mae Burnam, a composer and music educator who made significant contributions to piano education in the United States.

Its content allows learners to steadily and comfortably master the basics of piano playing through repeated practice.

Speaking of Burnam, her Burnam Piano Technique—famous for its unique stick-figure illustrations that match each exercise—is also well known! Each book is designed for quick progress, so it’s also recommended as a supplemental resource alongside another primary beginner method.

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Symphony No. 3, Movement IIIJohannes Brahms21rank/position

Brahms Symphony No. 3, III – Otmar Suitner / NHK Symphony Orchestra

The premiere performer described it as “Brahms’s ‘Hero,’” but the overall mood of the piece evokes melancholy and romance rather than struggle.

Over the timbre of the woodwinds, the cello sings a sorrowful melody.

This theme has also been used in films and, with lyrics added, has been sung as popular music.