Ranking of popular classical pieces

Gaspard de la nuit, No. 3: ScarboMaurice Ravel85rank/position

Ravel – Gaspard de la nuit – François 1958

Gaspard de la nuit, a piano suite composed in 1908 by Maurice Ravel, one of France’s foremost composers.

The third piece, Scarbo, is a virtuosic work depicting the vibrant figure of a mischievous imp that appears in the darkness of night.

In Samson François’s performance, a dynamic tone evocative of an orchestral sonority and a delicate touch fully convey the piece’s charm, interweaving humor and fantasy.

It is a superb rendition that I highly recommend not only to pianists who possess both advanced technique and musicality, but also to anyone who wishes to savor the profound depths of Ravel’s music.

Sonatina No. 9, First MovementMuzio Clementi86rank/position

Sonatine No. 9, 1st Movement / Clementi / Piano / Sonatina Op. 36 No. 3 / Clementi / CANACANA

For those seeking classical music with a bright, dazzling, and passionate resonance, I’d like to introduce a lively piece by Muzio Clementi.

Published in 1797, this work begins with forceful, energetic phrases and unfolds into light, flowing scale patterns.

Set at an Allegro (fast) tempo, it demands nimble fingerwork and dynamic expressiveness.

The well-balanced interplay of harmonious, beautiful chords and crisp staccato (bouncing tones) creates a splendid sense of brilliance and elegance.

With its clear, approachable melody, this piece is highly recommended for anyone who wants to fully savor the expressive range of the piano or add a vibrant, spirited work to their repertoire.

Kinderszenen, Op. 15, No. 7: “Träumerei”Robert Schumann87rank/position

Schumann / Träumerei from “Kinderszenen,” Op. 15 No. 7, pf. Kyoko Nakagawa

Robert Schumann, a leading composer of the German Romantic school, originally aspired to be a pianist, but a hand injury led him to pursue composition.

His life included many events that influenced his music, such as his marriage to Clara and his association with the composer Brahms.

The seventh piece, “Träumerei,” from his well-known piano collection Scenes from Childhood, Op.

15, conveys Schumann’s rich sensitivity through its gentle, beautiful melody.

It is a masterpiece beloved not only as a piano solo but also in various arrangements.

Sword DanceAram Khachaturian88rank/position

Khachaturian: Sabre Dance / Ozawa · Berliner Philharmoniker

The lively xylophone runs of “Sabre Dance” are from the final act of the ballet suite Gayane by the Russian composer Aram Khachaturian.

It is said to depict a battle dance performed by Kurds using sabres.

The piece is also known for its short duration of about two minutes.

At sports festivals, it’s a great choice for events like individual footraces, bread-biting contests, and obstacle courses, as well as timed ball-toss games, where participants can keep tossing in time with the music’s rhythm.

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GymnopédiesErik Satie89rank/position

Erik Satie – Gymnopédie No.1

A signature work by Erik Satie whose translucent melodies seep into the heart.

Composed in 1888, these three piano pieces were named after ancient Greek rituals.

Amid the gentle tones reminiscent of watercolor paintings, the occasional poignant chords leave a strong impression.

They are frequently used as background music in films and television programs, and their universal appeal has influenced many artists.

When you want to take a breather in your busy daily life or calm your mind, why not give them a listen? Flowing with a sense of tranquility, this work will surely become an oasis for your heart.

Cello Sonata No. 2 in D major, Op. 58Felix Mendelssohn90rank/position

Felix Mendelssohn: Cello Sonata No. 2 / Sol Gabetta, Bertrand Chamayou

This work is a chamber piece composed by Mendelssohn in 1843.

It blends features of the early Romantic period with Classical traditions, offering a rich musical texture for cello and piano.

It consists of four movements and has a performance time of about 25 minutes.

In particular, the third movement features recitative-like passages for the cello that quote Bach’s Chromatic Fantasy and Fugue, expressing Mendelssohn’s reverence for Bach.

Expressive and technically demanding, this piece is an important part of the cello repertoire and is one that every classical music enthusiast should hear.

“Arpeggio,” No. 4 from the Grandes études de PaganiniFranz Liszt91rank/position

Liszt – Paganini Etude S. 140, No. 4b [Huang Yi-Chung]

This is a grand set of variations that arranges Paganini’s violin work for piano.

First published in 1838, it underwent revisions to reach its current form.

In the eleven variations that follow the theme, piano-specific techniques such as tremolos, octaves, and arpeggios are lavishly employed.

Composed by Franz Liszt after being impressed by Paganini’s performances, with the aim of achieving violin-like expression on the piano, the piece combines dazzling brilliance that captivates audiences with profound musicality.

The beauty of its textures and development fully brings out the piano’s allure, making it a popular work in concerts and piano competitions.

It is recommended for performers with solid technique and expressive ability, and is a piece that will make a strong impression at recitals.