[Violin] A curated selection of beloved classic masterpieces and popular pieces that continue to be cherished across eras
The violin, an instrument beloved since the Baroque era—the very roots of classical music.
At times graceful, at times passionately expressive, the violin’s richly nuanced tone continues to soothe our hearts.
In this article, we introduce classical masterpieces that let you fully enjoy the charm of the violin, adored both as a solo instrument and as the star of orchestras and ensembles.
We’ll also share tidbits about the historical context of their composition and the composers themselves, so even newcomers to classical music can enjoy with ease!
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[Violin] Carefully Selected Classic Masterpieces and Popular Pieces Loved Across Eras (11–20)
Like a melodyJohannes Brahms(Jascha Heifetz)
Born in 1833, Johannes Brahms was a German composer who epitomized the Romantic era, known for works that fuse deep emotion with advanced technique.
This particular song by Brahms is characterized by delicate melodies and introspective themes.
In Jascha Heifetz’s arrangement, the violin and piano convey emotions beyond words.
The piece sets heartfelt reflections to melody, portraying feelings that cannot be spoken.
It is recommended for those who wish to savor profound emotion through music—a work that lets you fully appreciate the violin’s beautiful resonance and Brahms’s musicality.
Fugue from the Sonata No. 1 in G Minor, BWV 1001, for Solo ViolinJ.S.Bach
This is a masterpiece composed in 1720 by Johann Sebastian Bach, a composer emblematic of the Baroque era.
It is one of six works for solo violin, with particular attention given to the second movement, known as the “Fugue.” Demanding the advanced technique of playing multiple melodic lines simultaneously on a single violin, this work fully showcases Bach’s genius for composition.
Pushing the violin’s possibilities to their limits, it offers profound inspiration to both performers and listeners.
It is a highly recommended piece for anyone wishing to experience the depth and beauty of classical music.
Violin Sonata No. 9 in A major, Op. 47 “Kreutzer Sonata”Ludwig van Beethoven
Are you looking for a violin sonata that radiates passion and innovation? Premiered by Beethoven in May 1803, this work opened a new musical frontier in which the violin and piano compete as equals.
Composed as the young Beethoven was beginning to lose his hearing, it masterfully fuses technical challenge with profound emotional expression.
It was originally intended to be dedicated to George Bridgetower, but the dedication was changed after a falling-out with him—an intriguing anecdote.
Highly recommended for those who want to experience the bridge from the Classical to the Romantic era.
Violin Concerto in A minorAntonio Vivaldi
Antonio Vivaldi, a Baroque master born in 17th-century Venice, captivated many with his passionate and dramatic music.
This work, No.
6 from L’estro armonico, Op.
3, published in 1711, is a three-movement concerto for solo violin, string ensemble, and basso continuo.
Structured in a fast–slow–fast tempo scheme, it features a lively melody in the first movement and a lyrical line in the second that resonates deeply.
The virtuosic passages of the solo violin and its exquisite interplay with the ensemble showcase Vivaldi’s innovative compositional techniques.
Highly recommended for those who want to experience Vivaldi’s music or enjoy the beautiful sounds of the Baroque.
Violin Sonata (1954)Miyoshi Akira
Composed in 1954 when Akira Miyoshi was 20, this work is an important early piece written before his studies at the Paris Conservatoire.
Having received musical training from childhood and influenced by French modern music, his youthful talent finds full expression here.
Consisting of three movements, the first unfolds an elegant melody reminiscent of Fauré; the second opens onto a serene and mysterious sound world; and the third overwhelms the listener with impassioned rhythms and harmonies.
It is recommended for those interested in French music or neoclassicism, and for anyone wishing to feel the energy of Miyoshi’s youth.
Even for listeners new to Akira Miyoshi’s music, this piece offers an excellent entry point to his gifts.
TziganeMaurice Ravel
Alongside Debussy, Maurice Ravel—one of the leading composers of modern France—wrote Tzigane, a piece in the form of a czárdás consisting of a slow section called the Lassú and a fast section called the Friss.
The first four minutes or so are performed by solo violin alone, showcasing advanced techniques such as double stops and harmonics.
An evocative, Oriental-tinged principal theme is varied using a range of violin techniques, and the piece culminates in an even more brilliant atmosphere, building to a rousing finish.
[Violin] Carefully Selected Timeless and Beloved Classical Masterpieces and Popular Pieces (21–30)
Concerto for Two Violins in D minor, BWV 1043J.S.Bach
In the 18th century, the composer Johann Sebastian Bach was highly active in Germany.
Known as one of the “Three Bs” of German music and featured in Japanese textbooks, he’s familiar to most people.
While many concertos are performed as solos—by a single performer—his Concerto for Two Violins brings out the appeal of a duet through two violin parts, and it is one of Bach’s most famous works for the instrument.
Its melodies employ counterpoint, a technique that mixes multiple lines while preserving each one’s independence, and it remains enduringly popular today.
