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.
Symphony in CIgor Stravinsky
Let me introduce a symphony by the renowned Russian composer Igor Stravinsky.
He wrote this piece during a difficult period when he lost family members in World War II and fled Paris to take refuge in the United States.
The symphony has four movements and a performance time of about 30 minutes.
It was premiered in 1940.
Although Stravinsky composed many ballets and operas, he left relatively few symphonies of the kind exemplified by Beethoven or Haydn.
This is one of the rare symphonies by Stravinsky.
If you belong to an orchestra and are wondering what to program for your next concert, consider this work.
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.
The Firebird – Complete Version for Solo PianoIgor Stravinsky
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.
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.