Sergei Prokofiev Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

“Music for Children” Op. 65 No. 4 “Tarantella”Sergei Prokofiev15rank/position

Prokofiev: Tarantella from “Music for Children,” Op. 65 No. 4 / Ao Mizutani (37th Prize Winners’ Commemorative Concert / A1 Division [Gold Prize])

Sergei Prokofiev, the great Russian composer, wrote Music for Children, Op.

65, in 1935.

Its fourth piece is a lively, rhythmic miniature that incorporates elements of the traditional Italian dance, the tarantella.

While featuring Prokofiev’s characteristic modern touches, it is designed so that children can enjoy practicing the piano.

Though a short work in D minor, it distills the composer’s educational intent and artistry.

Marked by crisp rhythms and a strong drive, the piece should be played with clear articulation that highlights each note.

It’s an ideal choice for those who want to make a striking impression at a recital.

Music for Children, Op. 65: No. 9, “Tag”Sergei Prokofiev16rank/position

Prokofiev. Music for children Op.65. Piano. 9.Attrape qui peut.

This is a work by Sergei Prokofiev, one of the great masters of 20th-century Russia.

Composed between 1935 and 1936, Music for Children, Op.

65 is a suite of twelve piano pieces.

This particular piece from the set depicts children playing tag with a lively rhythm.

It features Prokofiev’s characteristic quirky melodies and playful spirit, making it a favorite among children.

While the tune is simple and approachable, it showcases the essence of Prokofiev’s compositional craft.

With its strong performance impact, it’s also a great choice for recitals.

10 Pieces from ‘Romeo and Juliet’ No. 6: ‘Montagues and Capulets’Sergei Prokofiev17rank/position

Prokofiev Romeo and Juliet – Evgeny Kissin

One of the most popular pieces from Sergei Prokofiev’s ballet music Romeo and Juliet.

Its heavy rhythms and powerful melody are distinctive, vividly expressing the feud and tension between the two families.

Composed between 1935 and 1936, it premiered in Czechoslovakia in 1938.

In Japan, it is also known for being used as incidental music in the TV drama Nodame Cantabile.

Listening to it around Halloween, its rugged rhythms and dramatic development can give you delightful chills.

If you play the piano, this is a great opportunity to try it as part of your repertoire.

Music for Children, Op. 65: No. 4 “Tarantella”Sergei Prokofiev18rank/position

[Recommended for Piano Recitals] Tarantella (Music for Children, Op. 65 No. 4) ♫ Prokofiev / Tarantella (Music for Children, Op. 65 No. 4), Prokofiev

Tarantella,” the fourth piece in Sergei Prokofiev’s 1935 collection Music for Children, Op.

65, is a lively work distinguished by the characteristic rhythm of the traditional Italian dance, the tarantella.

Not only does it make a striking choice for a recital, but it’s also perfect for building technique—fostering a sense of rhythm, developing finger independence, and strengthening dynamic control.

If you capture the rhythms accurately, play with a clear tone, and enjoy the distinctive modern rhythmic feel, this piece will surely leave a lasting impression in any recital.

Six Pieces from Cinderella, Op. 102: No. 1 “Waltz (Cinderella and the Prince)”Sergei Prokofiev19rank/position

Prokofiev – Waltz (from Cinderella) op. 102 no. 1

One of the pieces from Sergei Prokofiev’s piano collection Six Pieces from Cinderella, Op.

102, which incorporates the central melody from his signature ballet Cinderella.

Prokofiev married Lina Codina in 1923 but later divorced, and after returning to the Soviet Union in 1936 he produced a number of masterpieces.

In this work, the love story of Cinderella and the Prince is portrayed through an elegant melody and a delicate, wistful timbre, achieving a perfect fusion with a lively triple-meter rhythm to create a waltz that truly evokes a dreamlike world.

Why not listen for the couple’s first encounter at the ball and the music’s promise of a blissful married life shimmering through its beautiful strains?

Six Pieces from Cinderella, Op. 102: No. 4, “Waltz (Cinderella’s Departure for the Ball)”Sergei Prokofiev20rank/position

Prokofiev “Waltz – Cinderella ‘s departure for the ball” – No. 4 from 6 pieces Op. 102

Sergei Prokofiev is one of the foremost Russian composers of the 20th century.

His works vividly reflect his thoughts on war and the turbulent state of the world.

While Prokofiev left many large-scale compositions, his piano pieces are also exceptional.

The short pieces arranged from the ballet Cinderella brilliantly depict various scenes of the story.

In No.

4, “Waltz (Cinderella’s Departure for the Ball),” the lively music conveys Cinderella’s excitement and spirit of adventure as she sets out for the ball.

Its richly colorful sound world sparks the listener’s imagination, making it a fine recommendation for those who enjoy narrative, romantic music.

Symphonic Concerto in E minor, Op. 125, for Cello and OrchestraSergei Prokofiev21rank/position

Prokofiev Sinfonia Concertante in E minor op. 125

It is Sergei Prokofiev’s Symphonic Concerto in E minor, Op.

125, a work for cello and orchestra composed between 1951 and 1952.

It is regarded as a revision of his Cello Concerto No.

1, Op.

58.

The renowned cellist Mstislav Rostropovich, a leading figure of the latter half of the 20th century from the former Soviet Union, assisted with the revision, gave the premiere, and was the dedicatee of the work.