Gabriel Fauré Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Song cycle “Three Melodies,” Op. 7: No. 1, “Après un rêve”Gabriel Fauré8rank/position

Gabriel Fauré - “Après un rêve” / Fauré “After a Dream”

Gabriel Fauré, the great French composer known for his fantastical works.

Among his pieces, the one I especially recommend as a deeply moving work for classical piano is “Après un rêve,” No.

1 from the song cycle Three Mélodies, Op.

7.

Although this piece is often performed as a cello solo, it also possesses a profound, wistful allure as a piano work.

Each version has its own appeal, so try comparing different arrangements—voice and piano, cello solo, and piano solo.

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Barcarolle No. 7 in D minor, Op. 90Gabriel Fauré9rank/position

Faure Barcarolle No. 7 Op. 90 in D minor – Score/Sheet Music/Partitura [Kero]

Set in an elegant 6/8 rhythm, this piece gently reaches the ear with a piano melody that undulates like waves.

Within its relaxed and calm tempo, an introspective emotion is interwoven: the left hand evokes the swell of the sea, while the right hand spins a delicate line.

Although composed in 1913, its harmonic beauty and originality remain undimmed, continuing to move listeners deeply.

If you study the piano, consider adding this work to your repertoire: despite its simple structure, it invites richly nuanced expression.

It is a piece that lets you experience the characteristic elegance of French music along with the fresh sonorities of the transitional period from the Romantic era to modernism.

Eight Pieces, Op. 84: No. 3, FugueGabriel Fauré10rank/position

Fauré: Fugue in A minor; Vladimir Valjarevic

Despite employing the fugue form, this piece possesses a flowing beauty and delicate depth.

Composed in 1869, it captivates with a tightly interwoven four-voice texture.

The clarity of the subject and the interplay among the voices create the impression of watching an elegant social dance.

The modulation from A minor to A major is striking, and the refined grace characteristic of French music shines through.

At its premiere in April 1903 by Ricardo Viñes, its subtle expressivity was highly praised.

This work is recommended for those who wish to become acquainted with traditional classical forms or who are captivated by the elegance of French music.

Suite “Dolly,” Op. 56 No. 2 “Mi-a-ou”Gabriel Fauré11rank/position

[Piano Solo Version] Fauré: Suite “Dolly” Mi-a-ou, Op. 56-2 [Arr. by Cortot]

This charming piano duet was created as a gift for a young girl.

Composed in June 1894 to celebrate a delightful second birthday, it features a pleasantly waltz-like rhythm and exudes a lively, spirited atmosphere.

Its bright, bouncing melody evokes the innocent laughter and smiles of children, wrapping listeners in a warm, gentle feeling.

While it possesses the elegance and delicacy characteristic of French music, its technical demands are kept modest, making it ideal for piano learners.

It’s a perfect choice for those who wish to enjoy a duet with family or friends, or who want to perform music with a warm, heartfelt character.

Elegy in C minor, Op. 24Gabriel Fauré12rank/position

Élégie / Gabriel Fauré: Piano (Solo) / Intermediate

This is a masterpiece of French modern music, distinguished by its sweet, delicate sonority and richly expressive melody.

It opens with a quietly profound, wistful introduction, builds to a passionate climax in the middle section, and returns to stillness at the end, a three-part form that leaves a deep impression on the listener.

Within its unhurried tempo, the subtle harmonies and beautiful melodic lines convey the elegance and warmth characteristic of French music.

This work, which showcases a superb balance between solo cello and orchestra, was featured at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, accompanying performances by figure skating gold medalists.

It is a perfect piece for those studying cello or piano who wish to experience the allure of Romantic-era music.

Suite “Dolly,” Op. 56: No. 2, Mi-a-ouGabriel Fauré13rank/position

PTNA 2014 Competition National Finals / Intermediate Duet Gold Prize Ikumi Nagamura & Takumi Nagamura Fauré: from the Suite “Dolly,” II. Mi-a-ou

Gabriel Fauré’s masterpiece, the suite Dolly.

Composed to celebrate the birthday of the Bardac family’s daughter, Hélène, it is now beloved as a staple of piano recitals.

This time, I’d like to introduce the second piece, “Mi-a-ou.” The highlight of this work is its brilliant melody, worthy of a suite’s finale.

Its energetic structure brings out the full impact of four-hand performance.

Be sure to check it out.

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Nocturne No. 1 in E-flat minor, Op. 33Gabriel Fauré14rank/position

Fauré, Nocturne n. 1 en E flat minor, op. 33 n. 1

Beginning in silence with an introspective melody that unfolds into a passionate middle section, the musical flow feels as if emotions swirling deep within the heart are gradually coming to the surface.

Composed in 1875, the piece opens up a distinctive sonic world woven from wave-like undulating accompaniment and delicate touch.

Especially in the central section, where the surging bass and the treble melody cross, gravitas and clarity fuse in an exquisite balance, powerfully stirring the listener.

The performance time is about 7 to 8 minutes, and it is a work that can be attempted with basic piano technique.

It is an ideal piece for those who wish to experience the elegance of French music or hone their expressive abilities.