[Low Difficulty] Recommended Tchaikovsky Piano Pieces [Intermediate]
The great composer born in Russia, Pyotr Tchaikovsky, is a towering figure who gave the world many masterpieces—works that even those who aren’t classical music enthusiasts have likely heard at least once—ranging from his ballet music known as the “Three Great Ballets” to the “Three Great Symphonies” and various concertos.
It may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but Tchaikovsky actually wrote many wonderful piano pieces as well.
This article introduces several of his works, focusing mainly on piano pieces of relatively low difficulty, while also including some of his famous non-piano compositions.
If you’re a pianist who’s close to the intermediate level, why not take on the challenge of Tchaikovsky’s uniquely lyrical and beautiful melodies?
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[Low Difficulty] Recommended Tchaikovsky Piano Pieces [Intermediate] (1–10)
“The Seasons” – 12 Characteristic Pieces, Op. 37bis: July – Song of the ReaperPyotr Tchaikovsky
We would like to introduce a work brimming with the allure of Russia’s great composer, Pyotr Tchaikovsky.
Composed between 1875 and 1876, The Seasons is a collection of twelve piano pieces themed around the Russian seasons.
Each piece represents a specific month and includes a quotation from a Russian poet.
The piece for July depicts the busyness of midsummer farm work and the joy of the harvest, inspired by a poem by Alexey Koltsov.
Characterized by its lyrical and beautiful melody, this piece is perfect for piano enthusiasts.
Why not experience Tchaikovsky’s richly emotional musical world?
“The Seasons” – Twelve Characteristic Pieces: January “By the Hearth,” Op. 37bisPyotr Tchaikovsky
Pyotr Tchaikovsky is best known for his ballet music and symphonies, but he also wrote captivating works for piano.
Among them, The Seasons is a gem-like collection of short pieces depicting the twelve months of Russia.
The piece for January, which opens the set, portrays a quiet winter evening spent by the hearth.
Its gentle melody warms the heart, while the middle section conveys a sense of cold and the melancholy of dusk.
Composed over the course of a year starting in 1875, this collection is filled with Tchaikovsky’s love for Russia.
It is not technically demanding, making it a great recommendation for piano students.
Andante cantabilePyotr Tchaikovsky
We present a piece by Pyotr Tchaikovsky that captivates many with its beautiful melody and lends itself to wonderful piano arrangements.
The first movement of his String Quartet, composed in 1871, draws on a Ukrainian folk song to convey a poignant sense of yearning in love, and is regarded as a masterpiece among Tchaikovsky’s string quartets.
An oft-told anecdote speaks to its moving power: in December 1876, the great writer Leo Tolstoy reportedly wept upon hearing this movement.
Though it has no lyrics, it expresses profound emotion through music alone, speaking directly to the listener’s heart.
It’s a highly recommended piece not only for those interested in classical music, but for all music lovers seeking a beautiful melody.
[Low Difficulty] Recommended Tchaikovsky Piano Pieces [Intermediate] (11–20)
From ‘Children’s Album’ – ‘Baba-Yaga’ Op. 39 No. 20 in E minorPyotr Tchaikovsky
Children’s Album is a collection of piano pieces composed by Pyotr Tchaikovsky in 1878.
Among its 24 pieces, one that has drawn particular attention is based on Baba Yaga, the witch from Russian folklore.
Structured in ternary form—with a creepy, energetic main section, a contrasting middle section, and a return to the opening material—the piece skillfully conveys the witch’s terror and mystery.
It combines Tchaikovsky’s characteristically expressive melodies with refined technique, stimulating the listener’s imagination.
It is highly recommended for piano learners and for those interested in Russian culture.
The Seasons, November: Troika, Op. 37b No. 11Pyotr Tchaikovsky
When it comes to Tchaikovsky’s piano pieces—famous for his ballet music—many people think of The Seasons.
As the title suggests, The Seasons is a set of 12 pieces depicting the Russian seasons, each inspired by poems by Russian poets, with the titles reportedly chosen by Tchaikovsky himself.
Among them, the well-known November: Troika demands an intermediate level of technique within the set, so beginners may find it challenging.
In particular, the striking high-register melody in the middle section in G major, which uses staccato effectively, requires precise rhythm.
That said, rather than advanced technique, it’s a work where Romantic expressivity is key.
So instead of playing rigidly, picture three horses trotting briskly through the snow, and start by practicing slowly with that scene in mind!
12 Easy Pieces of Intermediate Level, No. 2 “Sad Song,” Op. 40-2Pyotr Tchaikovsky
No.
2 “Sad Song” from Twelve Easy Pieces, which is also widely known in its arrangement for cello.
It is a calm and beautiful work that conveys not only a sorrowful atmosphere but also feelings of joy and happiness.
With its relaxed tempo, it is accessible even to beginner pianists, though the left-hand accompaniment leaps may feel challenging.
Try isolating the left-hand part and getting the distances into your body before attempting to play with both hands together.
As you become more comfortable, pay attention to balancing the dynamics so the left hand does not drown out the right-hand melody.
“Sweet Dreams” Op. 39, No. 21 from Children’s AlbumPyotr Tchaikovsky
No.
21 “Sweet Dreams” from Children’s Album is a piece notable for its blissful atmosphere.
It conjures the image of a small child peacefully sleeping while having lovely dreams.
Although the tempo is relaxed, you may find it a bit challenging to bring out the main melody, since the right hand plays both the melody and accompanying chords simultaneously.
Practice the melody line and the accompaniment separately, then combine them while checking that you can clearly follow the melody by ear.
Using the pedal will also help you achieve a smooth, flowing performance.