Sergei Rachmaninov Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Symphony No. 2Sergei Rachmaninov71rank/position

Rachmaninoff – Symphony No. 2 in E minor, Op. 27

This piece was composed by Rachmaninoff during a time when he had achieved great success and public recognition as a composer, and his private life was flourishing as well, including his marriage.

Throughout, beautiful melodies unfold that are romantic and dramatic.

It fills you with a sense of happiness.

Symphonic Dances, Op. 45Sergei Rachmaninov72rank/position

Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Dances op.45 – Live concert HD

Rachmaninoff’s final work.

You’re drawn in by the dramatic opening theme and think a dance is about to begin… only for it to shift into a melody steeped in Rachmaninoff’s trademark nostalgia.

The second movement is pervaded by melancholy, while the third intensifies with shifting rhythms and builds to a lively finish.

In a single piece, you can savor a variety of moods.

Symphonic Poem ‘Prince Rostislav’Sergei Rachmaninov73rank/position

Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Poem “Prince Rostislav”

A symphonic poem written for large orchestra, it is also one of the composer’s earliest orchestral works.

Composed while he was enrolled at the Moscow Conservatory, it is a study piece that shows the influence of Tchaikovsky and Rimsky-Korsakov, yet already features the dim, melancholic melodies characteristic of Rachmaninoff.

Symphonic Poem “Isle of the Dead,” Op. 29Sergei Rachmaninov74rank/position

Rachmaninow – Die Toteninsel | Cristian Măcelaru | WDR Sinfonieorchester

Composed by Sergei Rachmaninoff and premiered in 1909, this work was inspired by a painting by the Swiss artist Böcklin.

It depicts a mysterious voyage to a solitary island, expressed through a distinctive 5/8 rhythm.

From the very beginning, the rowing-like pulse is striking, evoking the motion of oars skimming across the water.

With frequent use of low strings and woodwinds, the piece is characterized by a dark, profound emotional tone.

As if symbolizing a journey toward death or fate, the emotions gradually intensify.

Listened to on Halloween night, it might feel as though a door to another world is opening, immersing you in a mysterious soundscape.

Prelude, Op. 3 No. 2 “The Bells”Sergei Rachmaninov75rank/position

Evgeny Kissin Rachmaninoff Prelude Op 3 No 2 in C Sharp minor

This work is the second piece in the set Morceaux de fantaisie, composed by Sergei Rachmaninoff when he was 19.

The weighty chords at the opening evoke the pealing of Russian church bells.

Because of this sonority, it is affectionately known as “The Bells” or “The Bells of Moscow.” Premiered in September 1892 at the Moscow Electrical Exhibition, it became the most famous of Rachmaninoff’s early compositions.

In the middle section, the music shifts to rapid figurations, said to have been inspired by a dream Rachmaninoff had.

With an uncanny yet beautiful balance of eeriness and elegance, it makes a perfect listen for Halloween night.

Prelude in C-sharp minor “Bells”, Op. 3 No. 2Sergei Rachmaninov76rank/position

Prelude in C-sharp minor, Op. 3 No. 2 "The Bells" — Rachmaninoff

A piece included in Fantasiestücke, Op.

3.

It is said to have been inspired by the bells of the Kremlin Palace.

The majestic chords at the opening are striking.

At times it proceeds leisurely, at times with passionate drive, and in the end it fades away quietly.

One can picture a large church bell swinging from side to side, resounding and slowly receding into the distance.

Prelude Op. 23 No. 5 in G minorSergei Rachmaninov77rank/position

Rachmaninoff / Preludes (Prelude) Op. 23 No. 5 in G minor, 2009 Ōji Prize

Rachmaninoff, a Russian pianist and composer who represents the 20th century.

His works are characterized by simple yet beautiful and valiant melodies, leaving a powerful impression as if raw emotion is being expressed through music.

Among his 24 preludes, this piece is one of the most well-known.

From the outset, the bold yet freely played, march-like rhythm is striking, and the romantic melody heard in the middle section possesses a beauty uniquely Rachmaninoff’s.

It is a captivating piece brimming with the rich, folkloric sentiment of Russia!

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