Johann Burgmüller Popular Song Rankings [2026]

St-ÉtienneJohann Burgmüller29rank/position

14. La Styrienne / Burgmüller 25 Études - Burgmüller: 25 No.14 La Styrienne - Classical Piano - CANACANA

Famous as a piano method book, “25 Études.” The present piece, No.

14 in the set, is a charming waltz modeled on folk dances from the Austrian region, composed by Johann Burgmüller, a German-born musician who was active in Paris.

Published in Paris around 1851, this collection remains beloved by piano learners worldwide.

Marked by its lively triple meter and ornamental figures, it combines the brilliance of a ballroom with the simplicity of folk song.

It is also a popular staple for recitals and competitions, making it an ideal piece for piano students to solidify their fundamentals while cultivating musical expression.

Burgmüller 25 Easy and Progressive Studies, Op. 100 No. 25 “La chevaleresque” (The Lady’s Riding)Johann Burgmüller30rank/position

25. Lady's Riding / Burgmüller 25 Etudes - Burgmüller: 25 No.25 La chevaleresque – Classical Piano - CANACANA

This piece, with its dazzling and elegant atmosphere, has long been the object of admiration for piano learners.

Characterized by a lively rhythm and a bright tone, it is structured in four- and eight-measure units, making it easy to sense changes in phrasing.

By accurately rendering a variety of rhythms such as staccato and triplets, and adding dynamic contrasts, the image of horseback riding comes vividly to life.

Performed at a piano recital, it is sure to be a brilliant piece that captivates the audience.

It is recommended not only for improving technique but also for expanding one’s expressive range.

Since its publication in 1851, this masterpiece has been beloved by piano students around the world for more than 170 years.

Burgmüller 25 Progressive Pieces, Op. 100, No. 11 “The Wagtail”Johann Burgmüller31rank/position

11. Wagtail / Burgmüller 25 Etudes - Burgmüller: 25 No.11 La Bergeronnette - Classical Piano - CANACANA

This piece in 2/4 time is characterized by a light, charming melody reminiscent of a little bird.

A rhythmic motif of “ta-ta-tan,” effectively using staccato and sixteenth notes, vividly evokes birdsong and adorable movements.

Published in Paris in 1851, the work lasts only about 30 seconds, yet captivates with a beautiful melody woven from right-hand scales and left-hand accompaniment.

By focusing on supple wrist motion and precise fingertip control, you can bring out the piece’s elegance even more.

Even beginners will find it enjoyable to tackle thanks to its lively rhythm and friendly, accessible melody.

Burgmüller 25 Progressive Pieces, Op. 100, No. 19 “Ave Maria”Johann Burgmüller32rank/position

19. Ave Maria / Burgmüller 25 Etudes - Burgmüller: No. 19 Ave Maria - Classical Piano - CANACANA

This is a religious piece conceived with the image of a choir’s voices resounding through a cathedral church.

It possesses a solemn, devout atmosphere, and its rich harmonies leave a striking impression.

Published in Paris in 1851, the work is characterized by a beautiful melody imbued with the spirit of prayer.

By skillfully interweaving four-part harmony with three-part passages, it evokes a sonorous texture reminiscent of a cathedral’s reverberation.

The harmonic shifts are richly colored, illuminating the piece like the light through stained glass.

It is recommended for those who seek healing through music or who are interested in sacred music.

It also serves as an excellent study material for those wishing to learn pedal technique.

Combining an elegant ambience with profound spirituality, this work is sure to resonate in the hearts of listeners.

Burgmüller 25 Etudes, Op. 100 No. 1 “La candeur” (A Candid Heart)Johann Burgmüller33rank/position

Burgmüller: 25 Etudes, No. 1 La Candeur – Classical Piano – CANACANA

This is the first piece from Johann Burgmüller’s renowned piano etude collection, 25 Études faciles et progressives.

The flowing melody in the right hand feels as if a pure heart has turned directly into song—truly lovely.

With the gentle left-hand chords supporting it, children will find it easy to grasp the character of the piece.

Composed in December 1851, it’s now even used as a train departure chime, so you’ve likely heard it before.

It’s a perfect choice for a recital by a child around four years old who wants to express their feelings through the piano.

It also helps practice smooth finger movement, so let’s enjoy adding it to your repertoire!

Burgmüller 25 Progressive Pieces, Op. 100 No. 2, ArabesqueJohann Burgmüller34rank/position

Burgmüller “Arabesque” (Fujita Piano School)

Burgmüller’s 25 Progressive Pieces is a collection every piano learner encounters at least once.

No.

2, “Arabesque,” is especially popular for its driving, cool character.

The right hand’s quick, intricate passages often go smoothly because the patterns make it easy to increase the tempo.

The problem is the middle section in the left hand.

As soon as the melody shifts to the left hand, many players can’t keep up the tempo, and the flow often stalls.

Except where there are explicit instructions to slow down, extract and practice the tricky spots carefully so you can maintain the opening momentum throughout.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

yuri

Report a problem

Burgmüller 25 Progressive Pieces Op. 100, No. 25 “La chevaleresque” (The Lady’s Ride)Johann Burgmüller35rank/position

2009 Competition Finals - B-Class Gold Prize - Hibiki Nishikawa

Composed by Burgmüller.

Burgmüller’s 25 Easy and Progressive Studies include many pieces that are enjoyable to play and to listen to, and this piece, true to its title, vividly conveys a horse’s lively, sprightly jumps and a lady delighting in horseback riding.