Leonard Bernstein Popular Song Rankings [2026]

“Maria” from the musical “West Side Story”Leonard Bernstein15rank/position

West Side Story – Maria | Broadway Musical | Piano Cover

Among Leonard Bernstein’s many works widely cherished as masterpieces of piano music, the song “Maria” from the musical West Side Story is a beautifully delicate piece that expresses the protagonist Tony’s feelings of love through impassioned vocals and melody.

Reflecting the emotional core of the story, it has been used in numerous stage productions since its 1957 Broadway premiere, in the 1961 film adaptation, and its beauty stood out once again in Steven Spielberg’s 2021 remake.

It’s the perfect piece for savoring the exhilaration of falling in love and the tenderness of thinking about someone dear.

“Mambo” from the musical West Side StoryLeonard Bernstein16rank/position

Gustavo Dudamel – Bernstein: ‘Mambo’ from West Side Story (with Simón Bolívar SO)

A masterpiece by Leonard Bernstein, one of the most representative American musicians of the 20th century.

Premiered in 1957, this piece from the musical West Side Story is famous as a dance number, and its captivating blend of Latin music and jazz, along with its skillful use of the tritone interval, expresses the work’s inner conflict and tension.

It symbolizes youthful energy and social confrontation, with a dynamic musicality that leaves a strong impression.

Recommended not only for classical music fans but also for those interested in musicals and film scores.

Overture to the musical ‘Candide’Leonard Bernstein17rank/position

2012 PTNA Grand Muse Prizewinner Commemorative Concert Seiko Maeba & Hitomi Owaki

The Overture to Candide by Leonard Bernstein is a captivating work, brimming with the glamorous flair and humor of operetta.

Based on Voltaire’s satirical novel, it vividly captures the story’s atmosphere, with a bright and daring musical style that leaves a strong impression.

Since its premiere in January 1957, it has been frequently featured in classical concerts, and the piano arrangement has also enjoyed great popularity.

It’s a piece that fully showcases Bernstein’s creativity and musical range, offering a lively and exhilarating performance experience!

Symphony No. 2 “Age of Anxiety”Leonard Bernstein18rank/position

Symphony No. 2 “The Age of Anxiety” / Part 2 / 2. The Masque, Extremely fast [ Live at …

Leonard Bernstein’s Symphony The Age of Anxiety is a concerto-like symphony that features a solo piano.

Set in postwar New York, it portrays the inner worlds of people grappling with loneliness and anxiety across six sections.

At its premiere in April 1949, the composer himself performed the piano part and narrated.

Showcasing his personal style and musical breadth, the work is notable for its development through variations and the interweaving of orchestra and piano.

With its profound exploration of life’s subtleties, it is a piece I would recommend not only to music aficionados but also to lovers of literature.

Symphony No. 1 “Jeremiah”Leonard Bernstein19rank/position

Leonard Bernstein / Symphony No. 1 “Jeremiah” – II. Profanation (arr. F. Bencrisuto)

This piece was submitted to a composition competition during the composer’s obscure years and was rejected.

However, it finally received its premiere in 1944.

It consists of three movements and is a work in which he was conscious of his own Jewish heritage.

It begins with a heavy first movement, but as you listen, his personal plea comes through clearly to the ear.