[Advanced] Super cool if you can play it! Selection of famous piano pieces

12 Etudes, Op. 8, No. 12 “Pathétique”Aleksandr Skryabin

Scriabin — 12 Études: No. 12 “Patetico,” Op. 8-12 / Performed by Erina Ishii

Alexander Scriabin’s masterpiece Etude in D-sharp minor, Op.

8, No.

12 (“Pathetic”).

It’s known as one of the more difficult pieces among Scriabin’s works, but in reality it’s only about as hard as—if not easier than—Chopin’s etudes.

That said, it features a great many leaps, so memorization may be essential for some players.

However, since it doesn’t involve intricate arpeggios, it’s also approachable for those who aren’t fully confident in their finger agility.

It’s a work that makes a strong impression in performance, so be sure to check it out.

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Scherzo No. 1 in B minor, Op. 20Frederic Chopin

Hayato Sumino / Chopin: Scherzo No. 1 in B minor, Op. 20 (2018 PTNA Special Class Semifinal) Chopin – Scherzo No. 1 Op. 20

Frédéric Chopin’s masterpiece Scherzo No.

1 in B minor, Op.

20—often featured in competitions and concerts—is known as a highly challenging work that uses dissonance to great effect.

Because consonant and dissonant harmonies intertwine with shifting intensity, the piece demands both expressive range and technical skill.

In particular, the descending dissonant passage that unfolds from the high register at the opening is a signature phrase of the work, so I recommend practicing it intensively.

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Gaspard of the Night, No. 1: OndineMaurice Ravel

Gaspard de la nuit, M. 55: I. Ondine

If you’re well-versed in French literature, the title Gaspard de la nuit may remind you of the poetry collection by Aloysius (Louis) Bertrand, born in 19th-century France.

The work discussed here, however, is Maurice Ravel’s suite for solo piano, a piece of the same name inspired by three poems included in Bertrand’s collection.

Of the three movements, given our theme of “music to hear in the hot summer,” let’s focus on the first, Ondine.

“Ondine” is the name of the water spirit among the four classical elements; in Japanese, the form “Undine” may be more familiar.

When it comes to Ravel’s water-themed piano works, Jeux d’eau often comes to mind, but Ondine is a piece you should certainly know as well.

It portrays the story of an ondine who falls in love with a human, expressing both the spirit’s heartbreak and the image of heavy rainfall through Ravel’s characteristically sophisticated technique—an exquisite, delicate, and dramatic masterpiece.

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Gaspard de la nuit, No. 3: ScarboMaurice Ravel

Ota Shion / Ravel: Gaspard de la nuit – No. 3: Scarbo

Among Ravel’s works, the piece said to boast one of the highest levels of difficulty is “Gaspard de la nuit, No.

3: Scarbo.” Although Ravel pioneered avant-garde expression, his individuality is on full display here as well: amid a barrage of rapid passages and demanding octaves, the performer must still achieve refined nuances.

In terms of sheer technical difficulty, it may be outmatched by some other formidable pieces; however, if you are playing at the limits of your ability, shaping the fine details becomes exceedingly challenging.

If you are confident in your expressive powers, by all means give it a try.

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Those Who FightUematsu Nobuo

Those Who Fight (Piano Version)

This is a powerful instrumental piece that brilliantly captures the exhilaration of in-game battles.

Its striking melody blends the grandeur of an orchestra with the timbres of electric guitar and synthesizer, overflowing with tension and a sense of speed.

The work adds dramatic flair to standard battle scenes and serves to inspire the player’s spirit.

Since its 1997 release, it has continued to captivate fans worldwide through a variety of arrangements performed by orchestras and rock bands.

Masterfully expressing both the player’s passion and the intensity of combat, this piece also has the power to draw in audiences at piano recitals, making it an excellent choice for performers aiming for expressive, emotionally rich playing.

‘Estampes’ No. 3 ‘Jardins sous la pluie’Claude Debussy

Rain Garden (Debussy) – Debussy: Jardins sous la pluie – Estampes – pianomaedaful

Claude Debussy’s piece “Jardins sous la pluie” (No.

3 from “Estampes”) is themed around rain falling on a garden in his homeland.

Debussy is highly popular in Japan for his rich expressiveness, and he is known for many piano works that are as fantastical as paintings.

This piece also reflects those hallmark Debussy traits.

Measures 43–44 are the most difficult: although the lowest notes in the left hand carry the main theme, the writing makes them very hard to bring out.

Pay careful attention to touch control and practice with a focus on the clarity and evenness of each note.

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“Arpeggio,” No. 4 from the Grandes études de PaganiniFranz Liszt

Liszt – Paganini Etude S. 140, No. 4b [Huang Yi-Chung]

This is a grand set of variations that arranges Paganini’s violin work for piano.

First published in 1838, it underwent revisions to reach its current form.

In the eleven variations that follow the theme, piano-specific techniques such as tremolos, octaves, and arpeggios are lavishly employed.

Composed by Franz Liszt after being impressed by Paganini’s performances, with the aim of achieving violin-like expression on the piano, the piece combines dazzling brilliance that captivates audiences with profound musicality.

The beauty of its textures and development fully brings out the piano’s allure, making it a popular work in concerts and piano competitions.

It is recommended for performers with solid technique and expressive ability, and is a piece that will make a strong impression at recitals.