Sergei Prokofiev Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

ToccataSergei Prokofiev22rank/position

Vladimir Horowitz – Prokofiev Toccata D minor

A Russian composer who created a unique musical style that blends modern austerity with traditional classical elements, as well as Russian and European influences.

Although the Toccata is quite distinctive, it is a popular piece that many pianists include in their repertoire.

Toccata in D minor, Op. 11Sergei Prokofiev23rank/position

2019 PTNA Special Grade Semifinal – Saho Akiyama – Prokofiev: Toccata in D minor, Op. 11

This is a work by Sergei Prokofiev, one of the defining composers of the 20th century.

Completed in 1912, it is known as a highly challenging piece that requires advanced technique.

Characterized by complex layers of sound, it is said to have been so difficult that even the composer himself struggled to perform it.

At the same time, it offers performers ample opportunity to showcase their full abilities.

Its unique world, woven from rapid tempos and powerful rhythms, captivates listeners and doesn’t let go.

It is a piece I highly recommend to anyone seeking to master piano technique.

TroikaSergei Prokofiev24rank/position

Prokofiev: Troika · Sokhiev / Berliner Philharmoniker

This is a piece from the symphonic suite Lieutenant Kijé, composed by the Russian composer Sergei Prokofiev.

In 1933, Prokofiev wrote the music for a film of the same name, and after the film’s release he reworked its themes and orchestration to complete the piece as a symphonic suite.

A troika is a Russian three-horse-drawn carriage.

The tambourine’s bell-like jingling evokes the image of a sleigh carrying Santa Claus racing through the snow, making it a work well suited to Christmas.

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yuri

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Violin Sonata No. 2Sergei Prokofiev25rank/position

Prokofiev – Violin sonata n°2 – Oistrakh / Yampolsky

Prokofiev, one of the representative composers of 20th-century Russia and the Soviet Union, is well known for the suite Romeo and Juliet.

Many of his works combine a distinctive modernism with lyricism.

This piece was arranged for violin and piano at the suggestion of the violinist David Oistrakh, who heard the premiere of Prokofiev’s Flute Sonata in D major.

While it has a unique atmosphere, it is relatively bright and straightforward compared to his other works, and has gained wide popularity.

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HATSUMI

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Violin Concerto No. 1 in D major, Op. 19Sergei Prokofiev26rank/position

Sayaka Shoji plays Prokofiev : Violin Concerto No.1 in D major, Op.19

Prokofiev was a Russian composer whose career spanned from the Imperial Russian era into the Soviet period.

This violin concerto was written the year before the Russian Revolution and features a beautiful opening violin solo along with grotesque, unsettling melodies that seem to reflect the sentiments of the people at the time.

10 Pieces from the Ballet “Cinderella,” Op. 97: No. 2, The Spirit of SummerSergei Prokofiev27rank/position

Prokofiev / Summer Fairy — from the suite Cinderella, Op. 97 / Prokofiev Summer Fairy

Sergei Prokofiev, the Russian composer often hailed as one of the greatest of the 20th century.

If you’re someone who regularly listens to classical music, you’re surely familiar with this modern-era musician.

Among Prokofiev’s works, one piece that’s perfect for summer is “Cinderella Suite: The Summer Fairy.” Reflecting its time, the work features several jazz-like melodies and maintains a fantastical atmosphere throughout.

Be sure to give it a listen.

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Ryo

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“Montagues and Capulets” from the ballet “Romeo and Juliet”Sergei Prokofiev28rank/position

Prokofiev: Romeo and Juliet / Abbado · Berliner Philharmoniker

One of Sergei Prokofiev’s signature pieces from Romeo and Juliet, notable for its imposing and majestic melody.

Composed in 1935, this work symbolizes the conflict between the Montague and Capulet families.

The weighty sonorities woven by the low strings and brass superbly convey the tension between the two houses.

Though known as ballet music, it is also popular as a concert suite and has been widely used in film and television.

In Japan, it became well-known for its use as incidental music in the TV drama Nodame Cantabile.

Its slightly eerie, ominous atmosphere makes it perfect for Halloween.