[Masterpieces of the Waltz] A comprehensive introduction to classic works written for the piano!

Noble and Sentimental Waltzes, Waltz No. 5, Presque lent in E majorMaurice Ravel

Valses nobles et sentimentales (version for piano) : V. Presque lent, dans un sentiment intime

It is a particularly introspective piece from the suite Valses nobles et sentimentales.

There is an anecdote that at its premiere in May 1911—an anonymous concert of new works—many critics nevertheless recognized the composer as Maurice Ravel.

Marked “avec une émotion intime” (“with intimate feeling”), the music is suffused with a very private atmosphere, like a whispered inner dialogue.

Its melody, ebbing and flowing like waves, feels like a sigh, like a secret longing, quietly drawing close to the listener’s heart.

It is perfect for those who wish to deepen their delicate touch and expressive nuance.

Cherish its sentimental, beautiful world, and play with rounded, gentle tones, carefully and tenderly.

Masquerade Ball ‘Waltz’Aram Khachaturian

Masquerade “Waltz” (Khachaturian) Pianist Yuki Kondo / Khachaturian: “Masquerade” Waltz, Piano Solo, Yuki Kondo

The waltz in 3/4 time, both glamorous and tinged with melancholy, was used in the ballroom scene of the film War and Peace, beautifully enhancing the setting.

It opens with a powerful introduction, and in the middle section weaves in lyrical melodies that vividly conjure the image of an elegantly dancing couple.

This piece was also used in Mao Asada’s performance at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, where she won the silver medal, captivating the audience.

Combining strength and delicacy, it is a fitting selection for an upper-elementary school recital.

Precisely because students’ technical skills are advancing at this stage, they can take on the challenge of a richly expressive performance.

Violet, Op. 99 No. 1Jean-Louis Gobbaerts

Violet (Composed by Streabbog) Pianist: Kanako Ishihara [Piano Solo]: La violette (L. Streabbog, Jean-Louis Gobbaerts) Kanako Ishihara

A simple and elegant piano piece in F major.

Its light melody rings out charmingly, like violets heralding the arrival of spring.

The flowing right-hand line and the gentle left-hand broken-chord accompaniment are beautifully balanced.

While it features the expressive richness characteristic of Romantic music, it is not overly demanding technically, which is part of its appeal.

It’s an ideal piece for piano learners and excellent for cultivating musical expressiveness.

A heartwarming work that evokes the violet’s language of flowers—sincerity and small happiness.

Noble and Sentimental Waltzes: No. 3 Waltz, Modéré in G majorMaurice Ravel

Ravel, Valses nobles et sentimentales, No.3 Modéré

Maurice Ravel’s suite Valses nobles et sentimentales, modeled after Schubert’s waltzes, was introduced to the world in 1911 as a piano work and staged the following year as ballet music.

Of the eight pieces that make up the suite, the third waltz is a beautiful number in which a faintly wistful expression emerges from within a calm and orderly surface.

In this work, the two spirits of “nobility” and “sentiment” are expressed in exquisite balance.

Its slightly intricate, transparent harmonies carried by a flowing triple meter evoke the subtle play of pale light and shadow in the heart.

Rather than flaunting virtuosity, the key is to carefully draw out the fine nuances embedded in the score.

Aim for an elegant atmosphere by playing with a rounded, gentle tone free of harsh edges.

Genteel and Sentimental Waltz: No. 6, Vif (Lively)Maurice Ravel

Valses nobles et sentimentales (version for piano) : VI. Vif

It’s a piece from a suite composed by Maurice Ravel in the manner of Schubert’s waltzes.

Like a kaleidoscope that constantly shifts its expression, it brims with a lively, slightly mischievous character.

At its premiere in May 1911, the composer’s name was withheld, and its novelty was such that many in the audience could not guess the author.

The work was later used as music for the ballet Adélaïde ou le langage des fleurs.

It feels as though it depicts a somewhat thrilling and humorous ballroom scene.

The key is to bring out the rhythmic intrigue by consciously contrasting light staccato with smooth legato.

Though short, it is rewarding to play and perfect for those who want to broaden their expressive range.

Suite ‘Dolly’ Op. 56 No. 4, Kitty-ValseGabriel Fauré

[Piano Solo Version] Fauré: Suite “Dolly” Kitty-Valse, Op. 56-4 [Arr. Cortot]

Why not try bringing to life a graceful waltz of French music on the piano keys? Written between 1894 and 1896 to celebrate a young girl’s birthday, this elegant piece from a set of six portrays a beloved family dog.

Its lively E-flat major rhythm seems to capture the image of a cute dog bounding about.

Refined harmonies and delicate melodies weave a miniature of about two and a half minutes, wrapped in a warm, homely atmosphere.

With its approachable character that makes piano four-hands especially enjoyable, the piece’s graceful harmonic language—bridging the Romantic and Impressionist styles—offers a full taste of the allure of French music.

Stilienne – Burgmüller 25 Études, Op. 100 No. 14Johann Burgmüller

14. La Styrienne / Burgmüller 25 Études - Burgmüller: 25 No.14 La Styrienne - Classical Piano - CANACANA

This is a triple-meter piece that conjures an image of people in traditional costumes dancing lightly in the sunlit valleys of the Alps.

Published in Paris in 1851, it is modeled on the traditional dance music of Austria’s Styria region.

Despite its technical elements—such as the interplay of right-hand staccato with left-hand accompaniment, and phrases involving leaps—the piece captivates with a familiar, beautiful melody.

Performed at a recital, it is a wonderful work that allows you to share the joy of dance with the audience.

It is recommended for those who wish to cultivate rich expressiveness that vividly evokes scenes in the mind.