Jacques Ibert Popular Song Ranking [2026]

Chamber Concerto for Alto Saxophone and 11 InstrumentsJacques Ibert1rank/position

Ibert Concertino da camera – Claude Delangle & City Chamber Orchestra of Hong Kong

French Impressionist composer Jacques Ibert, known for his light, witty style within a neoclassical framework, is celebrated for works such as the Chamber Concerto for Alto Saxophone and 11 Instruments, a captivating piece that draws out the saxophone’s full expressive potential.

This work holds an important place in the saxophone repertoire and demands both high technical skill and musicality from the soloist.

Though scored for a chamber ensemble, it also incorporates concerto-like elements, making it a highly recommended piece for those who want to fully enjoy the saxophone’s allure.

Little Suite of 15 Images, No. 10: Serenade on the WaterJacques Ibert2rank/position

J. Ibert – Petite Suite in 15 Images, X. Serenade on the Water / J. Ibert – Little Suite in 15 Images, 10. Serenade on the Water

The music of Jacques Ibert, one of the leading French composers of the 20th century, is remarkably diverse: while rooted in classical tradition, it ranges from festive, lighthearted pieces to lyrical works that feel inspired.

“Serenade on the Water,” a movement from his Suite of 15 Images, is notable for its sprightly, lyrical character.

It offers a quiet, poetic experience that seems to place the listener in a boat drifting across the water.

Despite having been composed during the heavy, wartime years, Ibert’s music invites us into a peaceful, dreamlike world.

It leaves a pleasant impression and is recommended even for those not very familiar with classical music.

Little Suite in 15 Images, No. 15: ‘Coachman’s Dance’Jacques Ibert3rank/position

J. Ibert – Petite Suite in 15 Images, XV. Dance of the Coachman / J. Ibert – Petite Suite in 15 Images, 15. Dance of the Coachman

Jacques Ibert, one of France’s leading 20th-century composers, is highly acclaimed for a style brimming with humor and finesse.

His piano collection Petite Suite en quinze images is a gem that lets you fully enjoy his characteristically colorful sound world.

Among its pieces, No.

15, “Le petit âne blanc” (The Coachman’s Dance), though brief, features a lively, crisp rhythm that creates a sense of drive and a light, buoyant atmosphere.

It’s a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy classical music casually or make a strong impression at a piano recital.

Why not savor the full charm of Ibert’s music?

Little Suite in 15 Images No. 8: “Romance”Jacques Ibert4rank/position

From Jacques Ibert's 'Petite Suite en quinze images': 'No. 8 Romance' (performed by Takuhiro Fuji) #PianoTeacherLab #Ibert

Jacques Ibert, a composer who represents 20th-century France, is known for music that is colorful, refined, and at times rich in wit.

The eighth piece, “Romance,” from his 1943 piano suite Petite Suite en 15 images, is a masterpiece that reveals Ibert’s lyrical and elegant side.

Its gentle melody is striking, yet because it was written during wartime, one can also sense the composer’s inner emotions and the social climate.

This work, which showcases Ibert’s multifaceted musicality, is a gem that I highly recommend not only to classical music enthusiasts but also to piano lovers.

Six Pieces No. 5: “Morning on the Water”Jacques Ibert5rank/position

Jacques Ibert – Matin sur l’eau

Jacques Ibert, a quintessential 20th-century French composer.

The fifth piece from his Six Pieces, Morning on the Water, is a characteristically descriptive and emotionally rich work that vividly conjures the image of sunlight streaming over a tranquil surface of water.

Its elegant, refined touch feels like the breath of nature awakening in the morning calm.

With watercolor-like softness and a beautiful melody that soothes the soul, it’s a masterpiece I highly recommend to all who love the piano.

Six Pieces No. 8: Crystal BasketJacques Ibert6rank/position

Ibert: The Crystal Cage (8 pieces from the tale)

The eighth piece, “Crystal Basket,” from Six Pieces by Jacques Ibert—one of the defining French composers of the 20th century—brilliantly evokes the image of crystal glittering with reflected light.

The piano’s transparent tone colors create beautiful harmonies that gently enfold the listener.

Ibert studied at the Paris Conservatory and achieved distinction, including winning the Prix de Rome.

His music, while rooted in classical tradition, weaves an impressionistic, poetic sound world.

This work epitomizes the hallmarks of Ibert’s style and is an ideal piece for anyone—from beginners to advanced players—who wishes to immerse themselves in the allure of his music.

Toccata on the Name of Albert RousselJacques Ibert7rank/position

Jacques Ibert: Toccata sur le nom d’Albert Roussel (1929)

French composer Jacques Ibert is known for his wide-ranging styles and expressive versatility.

Composed in 1929, the Toccata on the Name of Albert Roussel is a tribute to Roussel, who was both a colleague and a friend.

Though only about a minute long, this brief piece concentrates technical difficulty and rhythmic energy, while conveying Ibert’s hallmark clarity and the elegance of French music.

Why not perform it while fully savoring the piano’s sonorities and keeping the composer’s intentions in mind?