Ranking of popular classical pieces

Symphony No. 9 “From the New World”Antonín Dvořák29rank/position

Antonín Dvořák, Symphony No. 9 'From the New World'

A symphony by Antonín Dvořák, a Czech composer of the late Romantic period who moved to America and contributed to music education as a conservatory director.

The subtitle “From the New World” carries the meaning of “a message from America to his homeland of Bohemia,” and the piece is famous as a representative work from Dvořák’s American years.

Even those not well-versed in classical music may recognize the second movement, which has been arranged as ‘Going Home,’ and the fourth movement, which shifts from an opening that evokes the film Jaws to a majestic tone.

It’s a highly recommended piece for anyone unsure where to begin with classical music.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Grand WaltzFrederic Chopin30rank/position

[Thank you! 800,000] Grande Valse Brillante – Chopin Op. 18 – Classical Piano – CANACANA

An impressive waltz that blends splendid brilliance with elegance.

It begins with a fanfare-like melody, setting a bright and refreshing mood.

The work beautifully fuses the virtuosic elements and lyricism characteristic of Frédéric Chopin, brimming with charm that captivates listeners.

Distinguished by its dazzling melodies and rhythmic performance, it can be considered a masterpiece that fully draws out the piano’s expressive power.

Published in 1833, this piece reflects influences from the Viennese music scene while shining with Chopin’s unique individuality.

It is highly recommended for those who wish to take on the challenge of piano performance or experience the allure of classical music.

Piano Sonata in B minor, S.178Franz Liszt31rank/position

Liszt: Piano Sonata in B Minor S.178

Composed between 1849 and 1853, this masterpiece is renowned as a pinnacle of piano music.

It revolutionizes the traditional sonata form with an innovative design that, while cast in a single movement, encompasses the conventional four-movement structure.

From the quiet descending figure of the opening, to powerful octaves and a majestic melody, the work abounds in musical contrasts.

With its meticulous architecture and profound expressiveness, it has been performed by many great artists, including Claudio Arrau and Martha Argerich.

Its structure, akin to a grand musical edifice, and the highly demanding technique required make it ideal for those who wish to push the expressive possibilities of the piano to the utmost.

When it was premiered in Berlin in 1857 by Hans von Bülow, it received a mixed reception, but today it is recognized as an important work.

Years of Pilgrimage, Second Year – Supplement: “Venice and Naples,” S.162, No. 3: “Tarantella”Franz Liszt32rank/position

List: Years of Pilgrimage, Second Year – Supplement “Venice and Naples,” S.162/R.10, A197 3. “Tarantella” Shogo Tsukada

The third piece, Tarantella, from Franz Liszt’s Venezia e Napoli, S.162—an appendix to the second year of Années de pèlerinage—could be called nothing less than a culmination of his work.

Composed intermittently from his twenties through his sixties, it allows listeners to experience the transition from Romanticism to Impressionism.

As one would expect from a work by Liszt, it is highly demanding.

The passages with continuous intricate ornamentation are especially challenging; however, because they also produce a striking performance effect, the piece is extraordinarily captivating to listen to.

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Ryo

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Concert Etudes, 8 Pieces: No. 5 “Joke”Nikolai Kapustin33rank/position

Eight Concert Etudes Op. 40 Raillery

This is a vibrant piece that fuses classical music with jazz.

Included in the 1984 album “Eight Concert Etudes, Op.

40,” it has a light, witty character that tickles the listener’s imagination.

Skillfully incorporating jazz elements such as swing and boogie-woogie while honoring classical formal beauty, it’s an irresistibly appealing work.

Rhythmic, dynamic phrases unfold one after another, enveloping the entire hall in a joyful atmosphere.

Performed by world-renowned pianists like Nikolai Petrov and Marc-André Hamelin, this piece is perfect for those who want to showcase both technique and expressive power.

It’s sure to create a captivating, unforgettable stage.

Come, sweet deathJ.S.Bach34rank/position

Come, Sweet Death by J.S. Bach

This work, which expresses deep religious sentiment, was included as part of a collection of sacred songs that the Baroque-era composer Johann Sebastian Bach published in collaboration with Georg Christian Schemelli in 1736.

The piece conveys both the depth of Bach’s faith and the universality of the message he sought to communicate through music, singing of the Christian teaching that one need not fear death; rather, by welcoming a peaceful death, one attains eternal rest.

Its simple and beautiful melody leaves a profound impression on listeners and continues to convey the timeless appeal of Bach’s music today.

It is a recommended piece for those seeking peace of mind or wishing to explore the world of Bach’s sacred music.

Play of WaterMaurice Ravel35rank/position

[High-Quality Audio] Ravel: Jeux d’eau (Fountains)

Are you familiar with a solo piano piece that condenses the aesthetic of French modern music—a work like a fountain of sound? Composed by Maurice Ravel, known for his meticulous sound design, and completed in 1901, this piece is a significant work representing his early period.

It premiered in April 1902, performed by Ricardo Viñes, and was dedicated to his teacher, Gabriel Fauré.

It is sometimes used in dramas and anime, and its transparent melodies continue to captivate many listeners.

The sparkling high notes, as if water were at play, and the flowing arpeggios make it perfect as background music for study sessions when you want to clear your head, or when you want to focus on your work.

Its charm lies in how you can relax while feeling the pleasant undulation of water.