Stravinsky’s masterpiece. Popular classical music.
Among his signature works are the ballet scores The Rite of Spring and The Firebird, and when it comes to a Russian composer who epitomizes the 20th century in the classical world, that would be Igor Stravinsky.
Stravinsky’s style is often marked by technical complexity and challenging harmonies and rhythms; many of his pieces are not easily embraced by general audiences.
Yet his avant-garde approach has continued to shock with each listening and made him one of the musicians who exerted a wide-ranging influence on the arts from the 20th century onward.
Here, I’ll list and introduce Stravinsky’s works—from the most representative to those that might make you think, “Wait, this is by Stravinsky too?”
Whether you find them accessible or not is up to you—do give them a listen!
Stravinsky’s masterpieces. Popular classical music (1–10)
The Rite of SpringIgor Stravinsky
One of Igor Stravinsky’s signature works, it was inspired by a vision he had while composing The Firebird.
Alongside Stravinsky’s three great ballets—Petrushka and The Firebird—it is a famous piece you should definitely know.
At its 1913 premiere at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées, renowned composers such as Claude Debussy, Maurice Ravel, and Camille Saint-Saëns were in attendance.
Even then, the production gathered avant-garde creators and drew attention, but it sparked a furor among listeners, leading to debates over whether it was art or not.
As you’ll hear, it is a highly avant-garde work.
Symphony No. 1Igor Stravinsky
Although it is his first symphonic work, this piece shines with originality.
Its traditional four-movement structure beautifully fuses Russian musical traditions with Stravinsky’s individuality.
Especially noteworthy is the third movement, where the woodwinds spin an evocative, pastoral melody.
The fourth movement exudes a festive atmosphere, incorporating quotations from Russian folk songs that captivate the listener.
While influenced by Romantic music, the work is studded with Stravinsky’s own musical ideas, marking an important point of departure in his career as a composer.
It is a highly recommended piece for anyone interested in the history of classical music.
Symphonic Poem “The Nightingale’s Song”Igor Stravinsky
It is a symphonic poem and ballet music reworked from The Nightingale.
The symphonic poem premiered in 1919, and the ballet premiered in 1920.
The choreography at that time was by Léonide Massine, but it seems it was not very well received.
The first act was composed between 1907 and 1909, and the remaining second and third acts between 1913 and 1914, taking a total of four years.
During the composition, Stravinsky produced The Rite of Spring and The Firebird, works that became his signature pieces, and his style underwent significant changes.
The symphonic poem The Song of the Nightingale was created based on the music from Act II, “The Nightingale’s Song” (Le chant du Rossignol), and onward.
The Soldier’s TaleIgor Stravinsky
Despite its small ensemble of just seven instruments, Stravinsky’s theatrical music achieved profound expression.
Through the soldier’s bargain with the devil, the story questions human desire and the nature of happiness.
Incorporating then-new musical forms such as jazz and tango, it forged a distinctive style.
Premiered on September 28, 1918, in Lausanne, Switzerland, it was highly acclaimed as an innovative work reflecting the turmoil of the postwar era.
As a synthesis of music and theater, it continues to move audiences today.
It’s a highly recommended piece for those interested in classical music or in the fusion of music and storytelling.
marriageIgor Stravinsky
This work offers a modern interpretation of folk music and explores the meaning of the ritual of marriage.
It is characterized by unique acoustic effects using four pianos and a rich array of percussion, and it had a major impact on 20th-century music.
While depicting a traditional Russian wedding, it also expresses the social pressures and personal conflicts behind it.
Although its 1923 premiere drew mixed reactions, it was later recognized as a masterpiece of 20th-century ballet.
It is recommended for those who want to savor the innovative music and choreography, or who wish to contemplate social institutions through art.
Russian-style ScherzoIgor Stravinsky
Let me introduce a piece that reveals an unexpected side of the Russian master Igor Stravinsky: the work called “Scherzo à la russe.” It was originally begun as film music, but when the film project was canceled, Stravinsky rewrote it for jazz band.
Its premiere took place in 1944.
He also created an orchestral version, which premiered in 1946.
Those who associate him with The Rite of Spring or The Firebird will likely be surprised by this piece’s playful, comical, and cheerful character.
Within Stravinsky’s output, it stands out as a very lighthearted and delightful work.
Apollo Leading the MusesIgor Stravinsky
This work is distinguished by its simple beauty, scored solely for strings.
The tale of Apollo and the three Muses—depicting their encounter and growth—symbolizes the sanctity of art and creativity.
Premiered in Paris in 1928, and paired with George Balanchine’s innovative choreography, it had a profound impact on twentieth-century ballet music.
While following classical forms, the piece breathes new life into rhythm and melody, successfully honoring the traditions of classical ballet while embracing a modern sensibility.
It’s a recommended piece for those interested in ballet music or looking to enjoy neoclassical music.