Johannes Brahms Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Variations on a Theme by Paganini, Op. 35Johannes Brahms50rank/position

Brahms: Variations on a Theme by Paganini, Op. 35 / Performed by Mika Ota

Johannes Brahms, a leading composer of the German Romantic era, was born in Hamburg and died in Vienna.

He displayed musical talent from a young age and secured his reputation after being recognized by Robert Schumann.

Composed between 1862 and 1863, the Variations on a Theme by Paganini, Op.

35, consists of 28 variations on the theme of Niccolò Paganini’s Caprice No.

24 in A minor.

It is known both for its profound expressiveness and as a study demanding transcendent virtuosity.

Brahms himself described it as “a piano study for refined fingers,” and its music—woven from passionate melodies and brilliant passages—leaves a powerful impression on listeners.

Requiring both advanced technique and deep musicality, this work is a pianist’s aspiration and a celebrated piece frequently performed in piano competitions.

Brahms’ Lullaby (from Burnam Piano Method 4)Johannes Brahms51rank/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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Waltz No. 15 “Waltz of Love”Johannes Brahms52rank/position

Brahms: Waltz No. 15 (Liebeslieder/“Love Waltz”) [Naxos Classical Curation #Cute]

Characterized by its graceful and sweet melody, this piece is a work for piano four hands composed by Johannes Brahms in 1865.

Though simple, it carries deep emotion and is beloved not only by classical music fans but by many people.

Condensing the weightiness and meticulous aesthetic sensibility so typical of Brahms, it is frequently used in films and television commercials, and is also popular as background music for weddings and receptions.

Since it is performed in various arrangements, feel free to choose a version that suits the occasion.

Waltz No. 3, Op. 39-3Johannes Brahms53rank/position

Brahms – Waltz Op. 39 No. 3

Composed in 1865 by Johannes Brahms, a leading figure of the Romantic era, the Sixteen Waltzes include this piece, a brief yet captivating work in G-sharp minor.

Inspired by the tradition of Viennese social dance, it is regarded as one of the most emotionally rich and refined pieces in Brahms’s waltz collection.

Originally written for piano four hands, it was later arranged for solo piano.

While preserving classical formal beauty, it embodies Brahms’s signature style, interweaving romantic expression.

If you’re looking to take on a waltz, why not start with this piece?

Waltz No. 9, Op. 39-9Johannes Brahms54rank/position

J. Brahms – Waltzer in d-Moll – Op. 39 / Nr. 9 – Piano (Steinway – HD)

Among Brahms’s collections of waltzes, a piece I especially recommend is Waltz No.

9, Op.

39-9.

These waltzes were originally written for piano four hands, so the solo versions can be awkward to play; however, Brahms himself also published a simplified arrangement.

The phrasing allows both the right and left hands to take their time and prepare for what comes next, making it relatively approachable.

If you find the left-hand leaps challenging, try practicing each hand separately.

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Waltz No. 15 in A-flat major, Op. 39 No. 15Johannes Brahms55rank/position

Brahms: Waltz No. 15 in A-flat major, Op. 39 No. 15

The gentle sound of the piano always soothes the heart.

This is a gem left by the 19th-century German composer Johannes Brahms.

Among the set of waltzes for piano four hands published in 1865, it is one of the most popular pieces.

It is known for its graceful, approachable melody and affectionately nicknamed the “Waltz of Love.” While valuing the formal beauty of Classicism, Brahms built a unique musical world interwoven with the sensibilities of Romanticism.

This work distills his delicate sensitivity and artistry.

It is a highly recommended piece for those just becoming interested in classical music, as well as for anyone seeking music that brings peace to the soul.

Violin Sonata No. 1 “Rain Song”Johannes Brahms56rank/position

Brahms – Sonata No.1 G Major – Vivace ma non troppo part I

This work was completed in the summer of 1879, half a year after the death of Felix, the youngest child of the Schumann couple and a poet, who passed away at the young age of 25.

Also known by the subtitle “Rain Song,” this Violin Sonata No.

1 was written when Brahms was 46 years old, and it is said to embody his feelings for Felix.