[Classics] Famous waltzes: recommended popular pieces

Eccentric WaltzCharles-Henry

Charles-Henri: Eccentric Waltz / Charles-Henry: Valse Étrange / Piano Jun Shiraishi / Jun Shiraishi

Composer Charles-Henri, who bridged jazz and classical music and left numerous educational works in France.

The piece in question is the final work in his collection of piano miniatures.

While it is a traditional waltz in 3/4 time, it carries a curious sense of weightless drift, as if the rhythm were deliberately offset, letting you enjoy an “eccentric” world just as the title suggests.

Published in 1980, it was originally written as a narrative-style piece for children, but it is a work that adults can also find deeply satisfying.

In the style of Chabrier, M. 63Maurice Ravel

In the style of Chabrier, M. 63

This work, by French musical master Maurice Ravel, was written as a homage to a senior composer he deeply admired.

While imitating Chabrier’s characteristic humor and bold harmonies, it remains a refined and sonorous miniature.

Borrowing a melody from Gounod’s opera Faust and casting it in the style of a waltz, it exudes a chic esprit.

Though it lasts only about two minutes, it distills the essence of French music with remarkable density.

It’s the perfect piece for when you want to savor the atmosphere of an elegant salon or to gently change the mood on a quiet afternoon.

Joy of LoveFritz Kreisler

Maxim Vengerov – Liebesfreud – Kreisler

“Liebesfreud” (Joy of Love), composed by the celebrated Austrian violinist Fritz Kreisler, is a waltz masterpiece brimming with happiness, just as its title suggests.

Known as the first piece in the collection “Old Viennese Dances,” published around 1905, it is said to have been written during the joyful period right after his marriage to his wife, Harriet.

Its bright and sparkling melody lifts the heart just by listening.

The solo piano arrangement by the Russian composer Sergei Rachmaninoff is also famous and has long been loved in Japan.

It’s a perfect piece not only for those who want to enjoy the interplay between violin and piano, but also as an elegant companion to afternoon tea.

Chihiro’s WaltzHisaishi Joe

[Spirited Away] Chihiro’s Waltz – With Sheet Music – Joe Hisaishi – 4K High-Quality Audio – Piano Cover – CANACANA

A deeply resonant waltz that colors the world of Studio Ghibli’s masterpiece Spirited Away.

It’s included on Joe Hisaishi’s album Spirited Away: Image Album.

In the film itself, the piece appears under the title “Reprise,” supporting the climax, but this work carries the very melody that could be called its origin.

As you surrender to the gentle 3/4 rhythm, a certain nostalgia may well up—an aching poignancy that tightens the chest.

While it evokes the film’s grand scale, it’s marked by a more delicate, introspective tone.

It’s the kind of track you’ll want to savor alone on a quiet night, soaking in precious memories.

The Blue DanubeJohann Strauss II

Waltz “The Blue Danube” Vienna Philharmonic New Year’s Concert 2014

The Blue Danube, a staple encore at the Vienna Philharmonic’s New Year’s Concert, is regarded as a signature work of Johann Strauss II, known as the “Waltz King.” Strauss composed it in 1867 at the request of the Vienna Men’s Choral Association to lift the spirits of his homeland after its defeat in the war with Prussia.

Depicting the beauty of the Danube Canal, the piece is so beloved by the public that it is often called Austria’s second national anthem.

It is a gentle and radiant work, evoking the image of clear blue waters flowing slowly through the city of Vienna under the sunlight.

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Waltz from Sleeping BeautyPeter Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Tchaikovsky: Waltz from the suite “The Sleeping Beauty” — Shinshu University Symphony Orchestra 99th Regular Concert

This piece is used in The Sleeping Beauty, one of the most famous works in classical ballet.

Tchaikovsky composed it, taking inspiration from Charles Perrault’s fairy tale “The Sleeping Beauty.” Among his ballet scores, it is the longest in performance time, and even the abridged version takes about two hours—a true epic.

The opening makes a strong impact with its surging strings and brassy accents.

The beautiful melody of the waltz section was also used in Disney’s animated film Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, making it beloved across generations.

Alongside the Waltz of the Flowers from The Nutcracker, it’s one of Tchaikovsky’s great waltzes and well worth remembering.

Waltz No. 7 in C-sharp minor, Op. 64 No. 2Frederic Chopin

Chopin: Waltz No. 7 · Marine City, Twilight Mao Asada Music

Composed by Chopin, it is said to be a culmination of his compositional technique, featuring a mazurka as the main theme.

It is one of the last works published during his lifetime.

Many people may find it familiar, as figure skater Mao Asada used it for her exhibition program in the 2011–2012 season.