Gabriel Fauré Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

The Song of Songs by Racine, Op. 11Gabriel Fauré15rank/position

VOCES8: Cantique de Jean Racine by Gabriel Fauré

Composed when Fauré was 19, this work is a sacred music piece distinguished by its graceful, gentle sonority.

Submitted in 1865 as his conservatory graduation piece, it won first prize.

Its melody, imbued with Fauré’s characteristic dignity and economy, foreshadows his later masterpiece, the Requiem.

Centered on Christian themes of salvation and faith, it is like a prayer that praises God and seeks mercy.

With elegant melodies and serene arpeggios, it brings listeners inner calm and deep emotion.

It’s recommended not only for those interested in sacred music, but also for anyone seeking peace of mind.

Requiem, Op. 48Gabriel Fauré16rank/position

Faure Requiem – Sinfonia Rotterdam/ Laurenscantorij/ Conrad van Alphen

Gabriel Fauré’s masterpiece Requiem was premiered in 1888 at the Church of La Madeleine in Paris.

Distinguished by its unique perspective that views death not as terror but as peace, the work omits the Dies irae and is structured around gentle movements such as the Pie Jesu and In Paradisum.

Scored primarily for instruments with a soft timbre, it exudes a serene, lyrical atmosphere.

Interweaving mystery with human consolation, this work is recommended not only for those interested in sacred music but also for anyone seeking peace of mind.

Violin Sonata No. 2, Op. 108Gabriel Fauré17rank/position

Gabriel Fauré – Jiyoung Park Sonata No.2 in e minor for Piano and Violin op.108

Movement I: Allegro non troppo; Movement II: Andante; Movement III: Allegro non troppo.

This work was dedicated to Queen Elisabeth of Belgium (Elisabeth of Bavaria).

It begins with an unstable 9/8 meter and proceeds through a series of complex modulations, creating a persistent sense of unease, yet it remains a work that distinctly reflects Fauré’s style.

After the DreamGabriel Fauré18rank/position

Apres un reve, Op. 7 No. 1

This piece was originally the first song in Fauré’s song cycle “Three Songs.” The lyrics are a French translation by the poet Romain Bussine of a poem long handed down in Italy’s Tuscany region.

The poem depicts a fantastical world and a beautiful woman encountered in a dream, and resounds with the sorrowful cry of the protagonist left in reality upon waking.

That heartrending cry is expressed through the cello’s deep, warm tone.

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HATSUMI

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Barcarolle No. 12 in E-flat major, Op. 105-2Gabriel Fauré19rank/position

Gabriel Fauré – Barcarolle No. 12, Op. 106bis

Composed in 1921, this piano piece features a flowing 6/8 rhythm and the warm sonority of E-flat major.

It evokes a gentle lyricism and profound spirituality.

Its graceful melodic lines are interwoven with the refined harmonies characteristic of French music, leaving a pleasant resonance.

While one can enjoy the subtlety of the harmonic progressions and modulations, the piece remains playable with fundamental technique.

It is recommended for those who wish to engage deeply with music in a quiet setting or savor the delicate expressions of French musical style.

It is sometimes selected for music university examinations and competitions, making it valuable from an educational standpoint as well.

Barcarolle No. 4 in E-flat major, Op. 36Gabriel Fauré20rank/position

Fauré, Nocturne n. 4 in E flat major, op. 36

This is a beautiful work in which warm harmonies and Fauré’s distinctive melodies blend exquisitely within a gently flowing atmosphere.

Published in 1884 by the French publisher Hamelle, the piece was dedicated to his friend, the Countess of Mercy-Argenteau.

The descending perfect fourth that evokes the sound of bells is striking, and the serene mood is superbly fused with lyrical expression.

The middle section introduces a minor-key episode, creating a pronounced contrast with the tranquil opening.

Technically, its relaxed tempo makes it approachable, allowing performers to explore Fauré’s sound world while practicing.

Highly recommended for those who wish to experience the elegance and delicacy of French music.

Three Songs, Op. 18 – No. 1 “Nell”Gabriel Fauré21rank/position

Fauré – Nell Op.18-1

Gabriel Fauré, a composer and pianist who epitomizes France.

He painted a richly emotional scene of a summer day in “Three Songs, Op.

18 – No.

1 ‘Nell.’” The piece depicts someone cooling off in the shade on a scorching summer day under blazing sunlight.

However, the scene isn’t presented straightforwardly; it’s expressed through various turns of phrase.

Listen with your imagination engaged.

Incidentally, this set of “Three Songs” is themed around the changing seasons, and the titles of the three songs are “Autumn.”

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yamamoto

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