Pyotr Tchaikovsky Popular Song Rankings [2026]

Symphony No. 5Pyotr Tchaikovsky78rank/position

[Silvester Countdown] Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 5: Movement IV [Naxos Classic Curation #Cool]

This symphony, composed in 1888 by the famous Russian composer Tchaikovsky, is said to be one of his three great late symphonies.

Created during his mature period, the piece is often described as having “fate” as its central theme, and the fourth movement in the video depicts a triumph over fate.

It’s a work with a commanding, dignified presence.

When you listen with some understanding of the composer and the era, classical music can reveal a different kind of appeal.

I also recommend exploring other pieces by the same composer if you liked this one, or listening to performances by the same musicians.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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Symphony No. 5, Op. 64Pyotr Tchaikovsky79rank/position

Tschaikowsky: 5. Sinfonie ∙ hr-Sinfonieorchester ∙ Manfred Honeck

It’s a popular symphony affectionately known as “Chai 5” in amateur orchestras.

The horn solo in the second movement is exquisitely beautiful, delivering a romantic melody.

The rousing finale of the fourth movement is a big favorite among student orchestras.

Every movement is easy to listen to.

Symphony No. 5, Second MovementPyotr Tchaikovsky80rank/position

Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 5 in E minor, Op. 64 – II. Andante cantabile (Svetlanov)

Above all, the beauty lies in the melody played by the horn in this movement.

Listening to masterful performances by the world’s leading orchestras, you can’t help but sigh at its loveliness.

As more instruments gradually join and the climax arrives, you can also savor a distinctly Tchaikovsky-like romantic melody.

Symphony No. 6 “Pathétique,” Op. 74Pyotr Tchaikovsky81rank/position

Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 6 Pathetique | Dresden Philharmonic & Marek Janowski

This is Tchaikovsky’s final symphony.

The clarinet’s ppp in the first movement is absolutely electrifying, and the ensuing full-orchestra fff pierces you to the core—an exhilarating masterpiece without a doubt.

The third movement feels cheerful, but in contrast, the fourth movement conveys a sense of the weight of life.

From ‘The Seasons’ Op. 37b: October — ‘Autumn Song’ (character piece)Pyotr Tchaikovsky82rank/position

“October – Autumn Song” from Tchaikovsky’s “The Seasons” (Olga Scheps live)

“Autumn Song,” October from the piano solo collection The Seasons, is characterized by a melody that conveys the unique poignancy and melancholy of autumn.

Its difficulty level isn’t very high, making it a popular piece for recitals.

It’s appealing because it’s easy for both children and adults to play.

Children’s Album: 24 Easy Pieces, Op. 39Pyotr Tchaikovsky83rank/position

Tchaikovsky – Album for the Youth Op.39

Composed in 1878, this collection of short pieces was dedicated to the composer’s seven-year-old nephew, Vladimir.

Pieces such as “Morning Prayer,” “Mama,” “The New Doll,” and “Russian Song” draw on subjects familiar and endearing to children.

Each piece lasts around a minute, and together they form a collection that soothes frayed nerves and brings a sense of calm.

Fantasia Overture “The Tempest,” Op. 18Pyotr Tchaikovsky84rank/position

Tchaikovsky – The Tempest (Fantasy Overture)

A concert overture composed based on Shakespeare’s play of the same name.

“Tempest” means storm, and the piece includes a scene in which Duke Prospero, using his magical powers, wrecks the ship carrying his nemeses.

It is a work that portrays the sea and the characters’ emotions—at times like a tempest, at other times like gentle waves.