[Masterpieces of the Waltz] A comprehensive introduction to classic works written for the piano!
The waltz: a steady dance in triple meter.
Among classical works, there are countless waltzes written for solo piano, solo violin, and orchestra.
In this article, we’re highlighting waltzes composed specifically for solo piano!
Focusing on pieces written from the 19th century onward—the so-called “century of the waltz”—we’ll introduce a wide range, from standard repertoire to hidden gems.
Even within the framework of 3/4 time, the character and atmosphere vary widely.
Please enjoy listening as you savor the unique charm of each waltz.
- [Piano Pieces] Easy for Children to Play! A Roundup of Simple Classical Works
- [Classical] Famous Piano Works | Gem-like Masterpieces You’ll Want to Play at Least Once in Your Lifetime
- [Classical Piano Masterpieces] A carefully selected collection of moving pieces that will bring you to tears
- Piano × Dark Pieces: Classic Masterworks to Sink Deep into Sorrow
- [Intermediate Level] A curated selection of piano masterpieces featuring strikingly brilliant melodies!
- [Classical] A collection of piano pieces with cool arpeggios
- [For Piano Recitals] Simple yet Cool Classical Pieces
- Stravinsky’s Piano Pieces: Masterpieces by a Composer Who Defined the 20th Century
- [For Adults] Recommended for Piano Recitals! A Curated Selection of Impressively Sounding Masterpieces
- [Piano Recital] Recommended for Middle Schoolers! A Comprehensive Introduction to Classical Masterpieces
- Baroque Music on the Piano: A Curated Selection of Masterpieces Perfect for Recitals and Concerts
- [Contemporary Pieces] A curated selection of classical works that captivate with the piano’s mysterious resonance!
- Romantic Piano Pieces: A Curated Selection of Popular and Classic Works for Recitals and Concerts
Masterpieces of the Waltz: A Complete Introduction to Classical Works Written for Piano! (11–20)
Grand WaltzFrederic Chopin
An impressive waltz that blends splendid brilliance with elegance.
It begins with a fanfare-like melody, setting a bright and refreshing mood.
The work beautifully fuses the virtuosic elements and lyricism characteristic of Frédéric Chopin, brimming with charm that captivates listeners.
Distinguished by its dazzling melodies and rhythmic performance, it can be considered a masterpiece that fully draws out the piano’s expressive power.
Published in 1833, this piece reflects influences from the Viennese music scene while shining with Chopin’s unique individuality.
It is highly recommended for those who wish to take on the challenge of piano performance or experience the allure of classical music.
Noble and Sentimental Waltzes: No. 1, Modéré (Moderato), G majorMaurice Ravel
The suite Valses nobles et sentimentales fuses traditional waltz forms with Maurice Ravel’s characteristically modern sonorities.
Its opening piece is graceful yet tinged with melancholy, evoking a curious, elusive mood.
At its premiere in May 1911, the composer’s name was withheld, and the work astonished audiences with its originality.
One can almost picture a glittering ballroom where, amid the dancing, a secret, fleeting thought crosses the heart.
The work is also known in its ballet incarnation as Adélaïde, ou le langage des fleurs.
It’s perfect for those who want to experience the intriguing rhythms and harmonies that overturn conventional images of the waltz.
Aim for a rounded, gentle tone to convey the wistfulness that lies beneath the brilliance.
Genteel and Sentimental Waltz: No. 6, Vif (Lively)Maurice Ravel
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.
Noble and Sentimental Waltzes: Waltz No. 2, Assez lent (fairly slow), G minorMaurice Ravel
A work with an introspective atmosphere that feels like peering into the depths of the heart, it is included in Maurice Ravel’s suite Valses nobles et sentimentales.
There’s an anecdote that it was performed at a private concert in 1911 with the composer’s identity kept secret.
Within the gently flowing time, noble yet sentimental melodies emerge, as if quietly staying close to the listener’s heart.
The traditional waltz rhythm hides some unexpectedly piquant sonorities that seem to express unspoken, complex emotions.
It’s a perfect piece for those who want to learn about subtle changes in tone color and long-breathed phrasing.
The key is to play as if breathing, imbuing each note with intention so as not to break the work’s mysterious atmosphere.
Noble and Sentimental Waltzes: No. 3 Waltz, Modéré in G majorMaurice Ravel
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.