Igor Stravinsky Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

night-singing bush warblerIgor Stravinsky43rank/position

Stravinsky- Le Chant du Rossignol (The Song of the Nigthingale) Ballet Russe Reconstruction

One of Stravinsky’s major works, this piece is set in China.

It contrasts a nightingale whose beautiful song captivates the Emperor with a mechanical, imitation bird.

Depicting the power of nature and the hollowness of artificial objects, it highlights music’s healing power.

The opera version premiered in 1914 and was later revised as ballet music in 1920.

Notable for melodies and harmonies that evoke an Oriental atmosphere, it showcases Stravinsky’s innovative musical style.

It’s a recommended piece for those enchanted by the beauty of nature and the power of music.

Fairy’s KissIgor Stravinsky44rank/position

Stravinsky “The Fairy’s Kiss,” conducted by Markevitch

It is a ballet set in Switzerland, based on music by Tchaikovsky.

The premiere took place in 1928, 35 years after Tchaikovsky’s death, with Stravinsky himself conducting.

The choreography at that time was created by Bronislava Nijinska.

Fantastical ScherzoIgor Stravinsky45rank/position

Stravinsky – Scherzo fantastique, Op. 3 – Dutoit, Montreal Symphony Orchestra

It is an orchestral piece composed in 1908 by Stravinsky, inspired by Maurice Maeterlinck’s work The Life of the Bee.

Stravinsky’s mentor, Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov, is said to have praised it highly after seeing the score.

Concerto for StringsIgor Stravinsky46rank/position

Stravinsky: Concerto in D for Strings 1/3

It is a concerto composed to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Basel Chamber Orchestra founded by Paul Sacher, and it is also known as the Basel Concerto.

The premiere, conducted by Sacher, took place in 1947.

It is sometimes used as ballet music.

The Rake’s ProgressIgor Stravinsky47rank/position

Stravinsky: The Rake’s progress – Nagano, Hadley, Ramey, Upshaw

It is one of the signature works of Igor Stravinsky, known as an innovator in classical music.

The story depicts the downfall and self-destruction of a young man, Tom Rakewell.

While the music is grounded in the forms of 18th-century opera, it incorporates modern interpretations, marked by Stravinsky’s distinctive, surprising harmonic progressions and rhythms.

The work skillfully explores themes such as corruption and freedom, love and desire, leaving a deep impression on listeners.

Since its premiere in Venice in 1951, it has been performed around the world as a masterpiece.

It is a highly recommended piece for those seeking to explore new possibilities in classical music.

The Rite of Spring (piano four hands version)Igor Stravinsky48rank/position

Stravinsky: The Rite of Spring (piano four-hands version) Igor Stravinsky: The Rite of Spring for piano four hands

A masterpiece in the piano four-hands repertoire that offers an overwhelming musical experience woven by four hands.

Prior to its premiere in May 1913, Igor Stravinsky himself arranged the work for piano duet.

Harnessing the piano’s unique qualities to express the original’s dynamic rhythms and dissonances, this version possesses a distinct appeal from the orchestral score.

The recording left by the Turkish Pekinel sisters in October 1983 captivated many music lovers with its meticulous ensemble and powerful expression.

It is a work that tests rhythmic sense and technique and demands a high level of musicianship, but the joy of performing it is all the greater.

Highly recommended for advanced players seeking to explore the very essence of piano four-hands.

The Firebird – Complete Version for Solo PianoIgor Stravinsky49rank/position

Stravinsky Ballet Music “The Firebird” Complete (Solo Piano Version) / Stravinsky Ballet Suite “The Firebird” Complete Solo Piano Rie Tanaka

This is a standout piece that captures grand ballet music on a single piano.

A story inspired by Russian folk tales is vividly portrayed using only the piano’s timbre.

Dramatic scenes—such as the Firebird’s fantastical movements and the showdown with the evil sorcerer Kashchei—are brought to life in music.

Stravinsky’s distinctive rhythms and harmonies sound fresh through expressions unique to the piano.

It’s recommended not only for classical music fans but also for anyone interested in the possibilities of the piano.

In 2012, a complete recording by Lidia Jardon was released on CD and received high praise.