Sergei Rachmaninov Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Symphony No. 2, Movement IIISergei Rachmaninov8rank/position

Tadaaki Otaka (conductor) · Tokyo Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra / Rachmaninoff: Symphony No. 2, Movement III / Orchard Hall Subscription Concert, July 21, 2014

Among the large-scale symphonies by the Russian Romantic composer Sergei Rachmaninoff, the third movement of his Symphony No.

2 is exceptionally beautiful.

Premiered in February 1908, this work became a landmark piece that helped him overcome past harsh criticism and regain his confidence as a composer.

The clarinet’s long-breathed melody seeps into the heart like an endless song, gently embraced by the warm sonorities of the strings.

Played during diploma presentations or recessional scenes, it can create a moving atmosphere befitting the children’s departure on their next journey.

Vocalise, Op. 34 No. 14Sergei Rachmaninov9rank/position

Dame Kiri Te Kanawa sings “Vocalise” – Rachmaninoff

Is there any piece whose wordless melody can move the heart this deeply? Published in 1915, this work is the final song in Sergei Rachmaninoff’s collection of songs.

As the composer himself remarked, “the voice alone can convey sufficient emotion,” and its beautiful melody—sung on a single vowel—resonates profoundly with listeners.

Over roughly six minutes, the wistful tune seems to drift between hope and despair, and it has been beloved by a wide audience, even appearing in films and television.

Numerous arrangements exist, and whichever version you hear, its beauty seeps into the soul—so do try listening to performances on other instruments as well.

Six Pieces, Op. 11: No. 6 “Slava (Glory)”Sergei Rachmaninov10rank/position

38th Prize Winners' Commemorative Concert – Intermediate Duet [Gold Prize] Ikumi Osamura / Takumi Osamura — Rachmaninoff: from “Six Pieces,” Slava (Glory), Op. 11 No. 6

Sergei Rachmaninoff, the Russian composer often hailed as the greatest classical composer of the 20th century, wrote the duet collection Six Morceaux, Op.

11.

The final piece, Slava, whose title means “glory,” combines serenity with Rachmaninoff’s signature brilliance.

In this piece, it’s essential to boldly convey the shifting moods as the music unfolds.

While keeping the thematic melodies scattered throughout the work in mind, perform with full sensitivity to the differing atmospheres of each section.

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yuri

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Prelude in G minor, Op. 23 No. 5Sergei Rachmaninov11rank/position

Yuja Wang – Rachmaninov: Prelude in G Minor, Op. 23, No. 5 (Live at Philharmonie, Berlin / 2018)

Completed in 1901 by the Russian musician Sergei Rachmaninoff, this work is a powerful piece that symbolizes Rachmaninoff’s Russian nationalism.

It is characterized by rich chords and enchanting melodies, and is structured with a march-like opening, a melancholic middle section, and a recapitulation of the initial theme.

Despite its grandeur, the fact that it ends softly is striking.

Although highly challenging, it may be the perfect piano piece for those who wish to experience Russian music.

Moments Musicaux No. 4 in E minor, “Presto”Sergei Rachmaninov12rank/position

Rachmaninoff / Moments Musicaux No. 4 in E minor, Op. 16 / Performed by Erina Ishii

Sergei Rachmaninoff’s masterpiece Moments Musicaux No.

4 in E minor, “Presto,” is notable for its poignantly nostalgic melody.

Rachmaninoff was highly regarded as a pianist as well, and is known for having exceptionally large hands.

That characteristic is clearly reflected in this piece, where the right hand features repeated octaves.

Despite the presence of delicate slurs, there are many passages that demand advanced technique, such as sections where staccato must be emphasized and continuous octave runs.

If you are an advanced player who hasn’t yet practiced this work, I encourage you to give it a try.

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Ryo

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Fantasiestücke, Op. 3 No. 4: The JesterSergei Rachmaninov13rank/position

Rachmaninoff: from Fantasiestücke, Op. 3 — No. 4 “Polichinelle” / Soran Hirase (46th Prizewinner’s Commemorative Concert, Class C [Gold Prize])

Fantasiestücke Op.

3 is a set of five short pieces, each with its own distinct character.

The fourth piece, Harlequin, is a varied work in which repeated modulations seem to depict the whimsical movements of a jester.

Because it requires expressive changes at a very fast tempo, it is by no means easy.

However, since the piece itself is compact and contains many repetitions, careful sectional practice will allow you to bring it to completion relatively smoothly.

If you enjoy lively pieces full of variety, definitely give it a try!

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yuri

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Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini in A minor, Op. 43, Variation 18Sergei Rachmaninov14rank/position

S. Rachmaninoff (arr. Jojiro Hirai) / Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Variation 18: Andante Cantabile / Hiromi Arisaki (Pf.) [OPUS Vol. 03]

One of Sergei Rachmaninoff’s signature works, Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, is a set of variations on the theme from Niccolò Paganini’s Caprice No.

24 for solo violin.

Comprising the theme and 24 variations, the piece is especially famous for its 18th variation, which is often performed on its own and frequently used in film soundtracks.

Although it is an extremely challenging work, its sweet, wistful, and beautiful melody makes it a piece many piano students aspire to play.

Even if you can’t master the entire work perfectly, why not enjoy performing it by practicing selected sections and incorporating them into your playing?

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KOH-1

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