[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 Timeless and Beloved Classical Masterpieces and Popular Pieces (21–30)
Violin Concerto in D major, Op. 77Johannes Brahms
A masterpiece by a giant of the German Romantic school, weaving a powerful melody.
The rich musical landscape created by solo violin and orchestra stirs the listener’s heart.
Its appeal lies in the varied structure: a forceful, passionate first movement; a lyrical second; and a brilliant, heroic finale.
Premiered in Leipzig on January 1, 1879, the piece was initially deemed “unplayable,” yet it is now beloved by many violinists.
Highly recommended not only for those interested in classical music but also for anyone who wants to fully savor the allure of the violin.
Carmen FantasyPablo de Sarasate
A piece by Sarasate.
Carmen Fantasy incorporates abundant virtuoso techniques while quoting melodies from Bizet’s opera Carmen.
In addition to Sarasate’s version, there is also Waxman’s version, and both are beloved as extremely difficult works.
Violin Sonata in A major, FWV 8 – Movement IVCésar Franck
The fourth movement of Franck’s Violin Sonata, composed in 1886.
It’s an engaging piece that contrasts a naturally flowing, beautiful melody at the beginning with a powerful, intense middle section.
The finale is radiant and resplendent, perfectly fitting for the conclusion.
Be sure to listen to the piano as well—it goes beyond mere accompaniment and engages in vivid interplay with the violin!
Violin Concerto in D major, Op. 35 – First MovementPyotr Tchaikovsky
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, a Russian composer who gained popularity for his lyrical melodies.
His works are characterized by enchanting, romantic tones and often carry gentle messages—such as acceptance of same-sex love and affection for small animals.
His Violin Concerto, First Movement, is known as one of his masterpieces.
Although it initially failed to gain attention due to its high level of difficulty, it won support after being performed by virtuoso violinists such as Jascha Heifetz and Efrem Zimbalist.
ChaconneTomaso Antonio Vitali
Vitali was a composer who was active during the Baroque era, in the 17th and 18th centuries.
His father, Giovanni Battista Vitali, was also a renowned musician, and together they served the court of the House of Este, where Vitali held the position of Kapellmeister.
During his lifetime, this piece was not published; it became widely known after the 19th-century violinist Ferdinand David arranged and released it.
It is a captivating work that, while demanding high technical skill and brimming with flair, also possesses a profound, melancholic beauty.
Violin Partita No. 2 in D minor, BWV 1004: I. AllemandeJ.S.Bach
Johann Sebastian Bach is an indispensable composer when discussing Baroque music.
He is said to have laid the foundation of Western music, and in Japan, he is honored as the “Father of Music” for his great achievements.
This piece, Violin Partita No.
2 in D minor, BWV 1004: I.
Allemande, is one of his famous violin works and consists of five movements.
Today, it has also been arranged for instruments other than the violin.
It might be interesting to compare those arrangements as well.
Violin Concerto in D major, Op. 35Pyotr Tchaikovsky
At today’s concert, this is probably the most frequently performed violin concerto.
It is one of the “Big Four” concertos, and beyond its technical difficulty, it combines brilliant, richly expressive melodies, making it a highly accomplished work.