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!
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Stravinsky’s masterpieces. Popular classical music (21–30)
PulcinellaIgor Stravinsky
This piece was created when Sergei Diaghilev selected 18 pieces and asked Stravinsky to arrange them.
Although the finished work was completely different from what Diaghilev had intended, he approved it, and it premiered in 1920.
Finale from The Firebird ballet suiteIgor Stravinsky
The monumental finale of the landmark ballet by Igor Stravinsky—celebrated as one of the most innovative composers of the 20th century—is a masterpiece that lets you fully savor the allure of an irregular 7/4 meter.
Based on a Russian folktale, this movement crowns the story’s climax: it begins with a quiet horn solo, then gradually brings in the full orchestra, building toward a moving, triumphant conclusion.
Premiered at the Paris Opéra in June 1910, the work was later reorchestrated into a suite and continues to be loved around the world today.
The vibrant energy of the 7/4 meter, expressing the joy of the characters freed by the defeat of the evil sorcerer, brims with festive brilliance befitting a victory celebration, making it an excellent introduction to classical music and a perfect recommendation for anyone eager to experience the excitement of irregular rhythms.
4 Etudes No. 4, Op. 7-4 in F-sharp majorIgor Stravinsky
This short piece, composed in 1908 and running just under two minutes, is a masterpiece that shines with an inventive fusion of harmony and rhythm.
Its light, lively motion bursts forth like fireworks, captivating the listener.
The deft use of syncopation drives a dynamic progression, while vivid harmonic shifts blend seamlessly, bringing out the performer’s full virtuosity.
Though brief, the work distills Igor Stravinsky’s innovative spirit in its pursuit of musical possibility, making it a memorable choice for a piano recital encore.
Notably, in November 1947, pianist Nadia Reisenberg gave a striking performance of the piece at Carnegie Hall.
The Rite of SpringIgor Stravinsky
This piece, with its striking opening bassoon solo, was apparently sensational at the time due to its dissonance and exceedingly primitive rhythms, and at its premiere there was such chaos that heckling broke out from the audience during the performance.
There is also a wind band arrangement, and it is a piece frequently performed by wind ensembles.
The Rite of Spring (piano four hands version)Igor Stravinsky
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.
A three-movement symphonyIgor Stravinsky
Composed in 1945, the piece was premiered in 1946 by the New York Philharmonic.
Incidentally, it was the first work performed after Stravinsky obtained American citizenship.
It consists of three movements.
AgonIgor Stravinsky
This is a ballet score composed using the twelve-tone technique between 1953 and 1957.
It was first performed at a concert held in June 1957 to celebrate Stravinsky’s 75th birthday.
The ballet premiered in December of the same year, with choreography by George Balanchine.