[Classics] Famous waltzes: recommended popular pieces

Drinking SongGiuseppe Verdi

La Traviata: “Libiamo, ne’ lieti calici”

Giuseppe Verdi, the great master of Italian opera.

The piece that brightens Act 1 of his masterpiece La traviata is “Libiamo ne’ lieti calici,” known in Japan as “The Drinking Song.” Set to a lively waltz in 3/4 time, the duet in which Violetta and Alfredo sing of love and the joys of life also conveys a fleeting, bittersweet beauty behind the glittering festivity.

Although it was poorly received at its premiere in March 1853, it is now a beloved classic around the world.

Why not give it a listen as an introduction to opera?

Waltz = BalletÉric Satie

Satie: Waltz – Ballet – Fantasy Waltz [Naxos Classical Curation #Fantasy] / Erik Satie: Valse-ballet – Fantaisie-valse

Waltz-Ballet is a piano piece written in 1885 by the French composer Erik Satie, known for works such as Gymnopédies, when he was just 19 years old.

Unlike his later avant-garde style, this piece is filled with a charming, Chopin-influenced character.

Even within its romantic melodies, the structure features repeated simple phrases, already showing a glimmer of Satie’s distinctive individuality.

Its true value came to be recognized over a long period of time, with records of a public performance at the Opéra-Comique in Paris in May 1979.

Today, it is also appreciated as a piece used for ballet lessons.

Serenade for Strings in C major, II. MovementPeter Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Tchaikovsky: Serenade for Strings in C major: II. Movement [Naxos Classical Curations #Romantic]

Serenade for Strings, a masterpiece for string ensemble composed in 1880 by the great Russian composer Pyotr Tchaikovsky.

Of its four movements, the second is especially beloved.

This waltz, performed solely by strings without any wind instruments, captivates with its blend of brilliance and wistful melody.

Premiered in October 1881, the piece has also been frequently used in recent film and video works.

Its graceful tone makes it perfect as background music for an elegant tea time or a leisurely day off.

Even if you’re not familiar with classical music, be sure to give it a listen.

Wedding Waltzsugiyama kouichi

Symphonic Suite “Dragon Quest V” The Bride of Heaven: “Wedding Waltz” Dragon Quest V performance by BRASS EXCEED TOKYO

Koichi Sugiyama, a melody maker Japan is proud of.

Among the pieces he composed for the RPG Dragon Quest V: Hand of the Heavenly Bride, this work has remained especially beloved as an exquisitely graceful waltz.

In the game, it colors the marriage scene—a major life choice—stirring the hearts of many players.

The melody was originally written for the musical Cinderella, which gives it a narrative, romantic resonance that’s deeply appealing.

It’s also very popular as BGM for real weddings and receptions, so why not choose it to celebrate a joyous new beginning?

In the style of BorodinMaurice Ravel

With Commentary: Ravel ‘In the Style of… Borodin’ / Ravel À la manière de… Borodine

As the title “In the Style of Borodin” suggests, this work is a waltz that imitates the style of the Russian composer Alexander Borodin.

It unfolds in a graceful triple meter in D-flat major and is known as a charming miniature interwoven with distinctive sonorities.

Written by the French composer Maurice Ravel as part of a series of pieces “in the style of” various composers, it premiered in December 1913.

To bring out the beauty of its wide leaps and complex chords, delicate control is required.

It makes an excellent addition to daily practice, offering a repertoire that balances technical skill with lyrical expression.