Jean-Philippe Rameau Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

New Harpsichord Suites, No. 2 (Suite No. 5), No. 5: “The Hen”Jean-Philippe Rameau43rank/position

Rameau: La poule, RCT 6/12 (Recording 2021)

Jean-Philippe Rameau, a leading composer of the French Baroque and renowned for his works for the harpsichord, published his music theory treatise Treatise on Harmony after the age of forty, which exerted a profound influence on the musical world.

Among his works, The Hen from his New Harpsichord Pieces, Book II—famous for its charming title—is a humorous piece that cleverly depicts a hen’s clucking and movements through sound.

It’s recommended for those who want to study Baroque performance practice or who are interested in works related to animals and nature.

New Harpsichord Suite No. 2 (Suite No. 5), No. 7 “Savages”Jean-Philippe Rameau44rank/position

Rameau – Les sauvages – Grigory Sokolov

Among the harpsichord works left by the Baroque master Jean-Philippe Rameau, one piece especially beloved by modern pianists is The Savages from his New Suite in A Minor (Nouvelles Suites de Pièces de Clavecin).

Reflecting the exoticism that fascinated Europe at the time, the piece at times expresses a raw, primitive sensibility in musical form.

With its pronounced rhythmic character, it exemplifies features of Baroque music while vividly conveying Rameau’s spirit of musical exploration and the social and cultural currents of his era.

New Harpsichord Suite No. 2 (Suite No. 5) No. 9 “The Egyptian Woman”Jean-Philippe Rameau45rank/position

Rameau – L’Egyptienne – pianomaedaful

Jean-Philippe Rameau, a towering figure of the Baroque, is said to have held a pivotal place in the French musical world of his time, and his compositional techniques and musical imagination continue to exert a profound influence on modern pianists.

“L’Égyptienne,” included in the Second Book of the New Suites de pièces de clavecin, is a rare work for its day in its treatment of an exotic subject, and Rameau’s innovative approach is evident throughout in its complex harmonic structures and rhythmic vitality.

It is a highly recommended piece for those wishing to deepen their understanding of Baroque music or to explore the expressive potential of keyboard instruments.

Hall of Glory (Le temple de la Gloire).Jean-Philippe Rameau46rank/position

Rameau – Le Temple de la Gloire

It is a masterpiece of opera-ballet composed for the French royal court and nobility.

Lavish, refined music merges with opulent staging, offering the full allure of Baroque art.

The story portrays ancient heroes striving toward the “Hall of Glory,” emphasizing the importance of goodness and justice.

In particular, through Trajan’s success, it conveys the message that virtue is essential to attaining glory.

Premiered at Versailles in November 1745, the work was created to celebrate victories in the War of the Austrian Succession.

Highly recommended for those interested in Baroque music and opera-ballet, or for anyone who wishes to experience historical context through music.

Opera ‘Les Boréades’ – Act V, Rihéminia’s EntréeJean-Philippe Rameau47rank/position

Rameau: Suite Les Boréades, RCT 31 – 9. Entrée d’ Albaris, Polimnie, les Muses, Zéphirs,…

This piece, arguably Jean-Philippe Rameau’s greatest masterpiece, is known as the culmination of his operatic output.

Completed in 1771, it draws on Greek mythology to portray a grand drama of love and freedom.

Its beautiful melodies, rich harmonies, and innovative orchestration vividly convey the unfolding story and the characters’ emotions.

Throughout the work, Rameau’s distinctive blend of delicacy and power is on full display, with particularly striking sonic effects used to depict the might of Boreas, the god of the north wind.

It is highly recommended for those who wish to savor the allure of Baroque music to the fullest, or to enjoy the high artistry born from the fusion of music and narrative.

Opera ‘Les Boréades’ OvertureJean-Philippe Rameau48rank/position

Rameau: Suite Les Boréades, RCT 31 – 1. Ouverture

The overture to the opera Les Boréades is a masterpiece packed with the allure of French Baroque music.

Its grand and majestic sound sets the tone for a mythic tale.

Depicting love and fate, and the relationships between gods and humans, the work is distinguished by its meticulous arrangement and innovative orchestration.

Although composed in 1763, it remained unnoticed until 1964—a fascinating detail in its history.

It’s recommended not only for those interested in Baroque music but also for anyone who enjoys dramatic soundscapes.

A gem that lets you fully immerse yourself in Rameau’s musical world.

How lovely are thy tabernacles (Quam dilecta tabernacula)Jean-Philippe Rameau49rank/position

Rameau: Quam dilecta tabernacula tua | Chœur Fons Floris & Contraponto

In his thirties, before he made his name in opera, Rameau composed sacred grands motets.

“How Lovely Are Thy Altars,” composed in 1720, showcases his mastery as a leading authority on functional harmony, and is an outstanding work that conveys the fragrant spirit of the French Baroque through its beautiful and delicate harmonies.