The magnificent world of vocal artistry: a special feature on popular vocal works from opera to art songs.
In vocal music, the singer’s body itself becomes the instrument.
Perhaps many of you haven’t really had the chance to listen to it properly?
Vocal music includes a variety of forms such as opera and art songs, and we’ve gathered some famous pieces we highly recommend even for beginners.
You’ll surely be moved, thinking, “Can such rich expression really come from the human body?”
We also recommend listening while paying attention not only to the melody but also to the lyrics and the story.
- [Hymns] Famous hymns and sacred songs. Recommended hymns and sacred songs.
- The magnificent world of vocal artistry: a special feature on popular vocal works from opera to art songs.
- [2026] Iconic musical numbers: from the latest releases to timeless classics!
- A cappella masterpieces: Recommended songs where beautiful harmonies shine (Western and Japanese music)
- Beautiful high notes that feel so good! Classic Western songs where you can fully enjoy high-tone vocals.
- Famous songs recommended for musical beginners
- [Classical] Masterpieces of oratorios. Recommended classical music.
- Western songs that women like. World classics and popular hits.
- Chanson masterpieces. Recommended popular songs.
- Beautiful, lovely Western music. A roundup of recommended classic songs.
- Famous German folk song | That Japanese tune was actually a German folk song?!
- [Chorale] Masterpieces of chorales. Recommended popular pieces.
- [Classics] Famous waltzes: recommended popular pieces
The splendid world of the singing voice: A special feature on popular vocal works from opera to art songs (1–10)
The joy of loveJean Paul Egide Martini
“Plaisir d’amour.” A song composed by Jean-Paul-Égide Martini.
It’s a charming piece that perfectly fits the title, “The Joy of Love.” Though the melody turns a bit sad partway through, that quality makes it all the more appealing.
The piano is lovely as well.
It’s the kind of piece I’d like to listen to on a leisurely afternoon while enjoying a cup of tea.
My Sun (’O Sole Mio)Luciano Pavarotti
‘O Sole Mio.’ It’s cherished as an Italian song.
When Luciano Pavarotti sings it, it becomes so lively.
You can feel the Italian sun spreading out before your eyes.
His voice, said to be a national treasure of Italy, has magnificent power—truly Pavarotti.
Singing out under the sun with a big, passionate voice would make you feel wonderfully refreshed.
Demon KingFranz Peter Schubert
Schubert’s “Erlkönig.” It’s a famous song often used in middle school music classes.
The lyrics are taken from a poem by Goethe.
The music is powerful to listen to, but the lyrics are frightening too.
Since they’re not in Japanese, you might not understand them.
Be sure to look them up.
Then, when you listen, you’ll understand why it’s so compelling.
The magnificent world of singing: A special feature on popular vocal pieces from opera to art songs (11–20)
‘What Is This Thing Called Love?’ from the opera The Marriage of FigaroWolfgang Amadeus Mozart
“Voi che sapete che cosa è amor” (“What is love?”) is a celebrated aria from Mozart’s masterpiece opera The Marriage of Figaro.
It shares its popularity with “Non più andrai” (“No more will you fly, little butterfly”) and is beloved for its gently sweet, beautiful melody.
On Wings of SongFelix Mendelssohn
Felix Mendelssohn, who made a name for himself as a composer of the German Romantic era.
“On Wings of Song” is one of his signature pieces, notable for its beautifully graceful melody.
It’s actually quite an easy piece to sing, so if you’re interested in opera, do give it a try.
Ave MariaBach/Gounod
Ave Maria, one of Charles François Gounod’s representative works.
Its enveloping melody is striking, isn’t it? Gounod’s Ave Maria is relatively easy to sing, so many female vocalists have covered it.
It feels like an introductory piece for vocal music.
Una furtiva lagrima from the opera L’elisir d’amoreGaetano Donizetti
Gaetano Donizetti, “Una furtiva lagrima” from the opera L’elisir d’amore.
A gently expressive aria.
Its relaxed tempo is soothing.
It’s a lovely piece I recommend when you want to unwind.
The aria brings a sense of calm.
“Una furtiva lagrima” is a wonderful work.