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 (21–30)

Flute Concerto in D major “The Goldfinch,” RV 90Antonio Vivaldi

NicoNicolet plays Flute Concerto — Vivaldi Flute Concerto in D major “The Goldfinch”
Flute Concerto in D major “The Goldfinch,” RV 90Antonio Vivaldi

Goshikihiwa is a small bird with five-colored plumage, known for its clear and beautiful song.

From the first to the third movement, a light and charming flute solo continues throughout.

It’s a cheerful piece that gives the impression the bird is chirping right nearby.

Violin Concerto in D major “Anxiety”, RV 234Antonio Vivaldi

A. Vivaldi: L’inquietudine – Concerto for violin, strings & b.c. in D major (RV 234)
Violin Concerto in D major “Anxiety”, RV 234Antonio Vivaldi

Several of Vivaldi’s concertos bear subtitles that express human emotions—such as “Favorite,” “Doubt,” and “Joy”—and this piece is one of them.

Although it is titled “Anxiety,” the music as a whole gives a bright, expectant impression.

Vivaldi’s masterpieces. Popular classical music (31–40)

Concerto in G major RV 532 for Two MandolinsAntonio Vivaldi

The mandolin is a plucked string instrument that traces its lineage to the ancient lute and was refined and born in Italy around the 19th century.

Its bright, carefree melodies evoke scenes of rural towns and are deeply appealing.

This work lets you fully savor the mandolin’s unique, graceful, shimmering tone.

Concerto grosso in G minor “For the Orchestra of Dresden,” RV 577Antonio Vivaldi

Antonio Vivaldi: ‘Concerto per l’orchestra di Dresda’ con molti istromenti in G minor (RV 577)
Concerto grosso in G minor “For the Orchestra of Dresden,” RV 577Antonio Vivaldi

A concerto grosso dedicated to the Dresden Court Orchestra, directed by the German violinist Pisendel.

Built on a foundation of viola and basso continuo, the piece features solo passages for oboe, violin, bassoon, and recorder that shine throughout.

Concerto da camera in G minor, RV 103Antonio Vivaldi

Vivaldi – Chamber Concerto for Woodwinds in G Minor RV103
Concerto da camera in G minor, RV 103Antonio Vivaldi

A concerto with the recorder as the star.

Its pastoral tone evokes rustic landscapes, and for those who picture glamorous orchestration as the classical archetype, it will feel refreshingly novel.

The recorder’s timbre, carrying the main melody, is like birdsong, leaving you with a warm, cozy feeling.

Psalm 126: Unless the Lord builds the house, RV 608Antonio Vivaldi

Nisi Dominus, RV 608 (“Cum dederit”) – Antonio Vivaldi – Soprano: Sandrine Piau
Psalm 126: Unless the Lord builds the house, RV 608Antonio Vivaldi

A work for alto solo and strings composed for one of the renowned female choristers of the Pietà.

It is sometimes performed by a countertenor instead of an alto.

The text is Psalm 127 from the Old Testament’s Book of Psalms, which praises God.

A solemn and beautiful piece.

“Winter” from The Four Seasons, a violin concertoAntonio Vivaldi

Vivaldi “The Four Seasons” – “Winter” | High Quality | FULL
“Winter” from The Four Seasons, a violin concertoAntonio Vivaldi

There are studies showing that cats prefer sounds one octave above the human voice or higher, and dislike low or growling sounds.

This is thought to be because higher tones are closer to a cat’s meow; for example, the timbre of a violin resembles a cat’s voice among instruments, so they’re likely to listen to it in a relaxed state.

However, some cats find the mere presence of continuous sound distressing, so please keep an eye on your cat’s behavior as a routine.