RAG MusicClassic
Lovely classics

Vivaldi’s masterpiece. Popular classical music.

Here are some recommended masterpieces and signature works by Antonio Vivaldi, the great Baroque composer and violinist.

During his lifetime, Vivaldi advanced the emerging concerto style and influenced musicians across Europe through his orchestration, violin technique, and programmatic music.

Although his musical reputation waned for a time after his peak, modern scholarship and performers have brought renewed appreciation to his work.

Even today, new pieces continue to be discovered, and his influence remains strong.

When you listen to Vivaldi, try to listen closely.

Your discovery might turn out to be a breakthrough of the century.

Enjoy listening.

Vivaldi’s masterpieces. Popular classical music (1–10)

Violin Concerto in D minor “For Mr. Pisendel,” RV 236Antonio Vivaldi

Antonio Vivaldi – Concerto for 2 Violins in A minor RV 522 (Sheet Music Score)
Violin Concerto in D minor “For Mr. Pisendel,” RV 236Antonio Vivaldi

The “Pisendel” in the title refers to Johann Georg Pisendel, a German late Baroque violinist who once studied under Antonio Vivaldi, the Italian composer and violinist.

Pisendel received violin concertos from many composers, and Vivaldi likewise dedicated works bearing Pisendel’s name to him.

It’s an unattainable dream, but I’d love to hear these pieces performed by Pisendel himself, who was regarded as Germany’s foremost violinist.

Violin Concerto in A minor, RV 356Antonio Vivaldi

A work included in Antonio Vivaldi’s 1711 published collection of concerti, L’estro armonico.

After a swiftly paced first movement that races along lightly, a leisurely second movement is interposed, and in the third movement the tempo returns to a sudden, passionate drive, culminating in a dramatic conclusion.

From the opening to the very end, it features melodies so captivating you won’t want to miss a single note.

Concerto for Strings in C major “Alla Francese” RV 117Antonio Vivaldi

A. Vivaldi: RV 117 / Concerto for strings & b.c. from ‘La Sena Festeggiante’ (RV 693)
Concerto for Strings in C major “Alla Francese” RV 117Antonio Vivaldi

Antonio Vivaldi was an Italian composer born in 1678 who wrote numerous concertos over the course of his life, a genre known for best expressing Vivaldi’s individuality.

This piece is also one of the concertos at which Vivaldi excelled.

Scored for strings and basso continuo, it carries an elegance reminiscent of courtly music.

Vivaldi’s Masterpieces: Popular Classical Music (11–20)

Flute Concerto in G minor “The Night” (La notte), RV 439, Op. 10 No. 2Antonio Vivaldi

Vivaldi: Flute Concerto “La notte” / Pahud · Marcon · Berliner Philharmoniker
Flute Concerto in G minor “The Night” (La notte), RV 439, Op. 10 No. 2Antonio Vivaldi

This flute concerto consists of six movements and was originally composed for recorder.

While it includes driving movements such as an Allegro, as suggested by the title “Night,” the second movement is subtitled “Ghosts” and the fifth “Sleep,” giving the work an air of tranquility and fantasy.

It is considered one of the classic masterpieces.

Concerto for Two Violins in A minor, RV 522Antonio Vivaldi

Concerto in A Minor for two violins, RV 522 – Antonio Vivaldi
Concerto for Two Violins in A minor, RV 522Antonio Vivaldi

This is a piece from Antonio Vivaldi’s 1711 concerto collection, L’estro Armonico.

It is characterized by the beautiful melodies played by two violins and follows a three-movement fast–slow–fast structure.

The first and third movements unfold with vibrant energy, while the second movement features a gentle melody that soothes the listener.

This work showcases Vivaldi’s innovative musical style and had a significant influence on Bach.

It’s recommended not only for lovers of classical music but also for those interested in Baroque music.

Its graceful atmosphere is infused with passionate expression, unfailingly captivating its audience.

Concerto in G minor, RV 531, for Two CellosAntonio Vivaldi

A dramatic work in which two solo cellos engage in an intense exchange from the very beginning.

While concertos are often written for a single instrument—such as piano or violin—with orchestra, this is Antonio Vivaldi’s only double concerto for cellos.

Although it is not as famous as The Four Seasons, it is well known among cellists as a masterpiece and is said to be part of the repertoire of renowned cello performers both in Japan and abroad.

Piccolo Concerto in C major, RV 444Antonio Vivaldi

A. Vivaldi: Concerto for flautino, strings & b.c. in C major (RV 444) / Amarillis
Piccolo Concerto in C major, RV 444Antonio Vivaldi

This is a concerto for piccolo composed by Antonio Vivaldi, the composer known as “The Red Priest.” It is one of three concertos written in the late 1720s and is characterized by its bright, buoyant timbre.

Consisting of three movements, it features virtuosic melodies and dazzling ornamentation.

The piece fully showcases the piccolo’s charm, lifting the spirits of its listeners.

It’s recommended not only for those interested in classical music but also for anyone seeking a cheerful mood.

Enjoy the exhilarating world of music in this work that highlights Vivaldi’s brilliance.