[Classics] Famous waltzes: recommended popular pieces
Introducing a selection of famous waltzes all at once! From classic staples to lesser-known gems, we’ve picked a wide range.
The true charm of the waltz lies in its 3/4 time, doesn’t it? That distinctive meter creates such a romantic atmosphere.
Whether in major or minor keys, it’s captivating music.
This time, it’s a special feature on waltzes! You might even discover something like, “I didn’t know there was such a great piece!” We’ve selected pieces across various styles, so be sure to read to the end!
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[Classical] Famous Waltzes: Recommended Popular Pieces (41–50)
Waltz No. 6 in D-flat major, Op. 64 No. 1 “Minute Waltz”Frederic Chopin
Familiar under the title “Minute Waltz,” Chopin’s Waltz No.
6 in D-flat major, Op.
64, No.
1 is said to have been improvised to depict the scene of the composer Frédéric François Chopin’s lover George Sand’s dog spinning in circles while chasing its own tail.
With its charming character and brisk tempo, it is a piece that many piano students aspire to master at least once.
The middle section features a beautiful melody, but overall the music is driven by a whirlwind of rapid, exhilarating lines.
Waltz No. 11 in G-flat major, Op. 70 No. 1Frederic Chopin
One of three waltzes that were not published during Chopin’s lifetime and were released posthumously as part of a collection compiled by his friend Fontana.
This waltz, in ternary form, conveys the character of a mazurka—specifically an oberek.
Despite its brevity, it has distinct features: an anacrustic opening, frequent use of ornamentation, and occasional leaps of a tenth in the melody.
It begins lightly, and in the middle section shifts dramatically to an elegant atmosphere—an archetypally Chopinesque trait that is well displayed in this piece.
Emperor WaltzJohann Strauss II
A work by Johann Strauss II, known as the “Waltz King.” It was originally titled “Hand in Hand,” but since both German Emperor Wilhelm II and Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph attended a performance of the piece, it came to be called the “Emperor Waltz.” The piece begins with a march rhythm, but after a cello solo it shifts to a lively waltz melody.
A light, sprightly waltz rhythm and the brilliant timbre of the wind instruments resound.
Beyond the billowing wavesJuventino Rosas
A waltz composed by the Mexican composer Juventino Rosas.
From a young age, Rosas made his living by taking on all kinds of music-related jobs.
He was largely self-taught in composition and led orchestras and brass bands on international concert tours.
This piece is characterized by an elegant and bright tone that calls to mind the clear blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
The timbres of the flute and harp seem to depict sunlight reflecting on the water’s surface.
Because of its brightness, the piece is often used as background music in amusement parks and leisure facilities.
Swan Lake Act I: WaltzPeter Ilyich Tchaikovsky
Swan Lake, one of Tchaikovsky’s three great ballets.
The ballet was conceived based on the fairy tale “The Stolen Veil” by the German writer Musäus, and tells the love story of Odette—transformed into a swan by a demon’s curse—and Prince Siegfried.
The waltz is performed in Act I during the corps de ballet scene where village maidens dance to celebrate the prince’s coming of age.
It is one of the most famous of Tchaikovsky’s waltzes, offering a richly varied musical character.
Waltz No. 6 in D-flat major, Op. 64 No. 1 “Minute Waltz”Frederic Chopin
A representative work by Chopin, commonly known as the “Minute Waltz.” The piece was dedicated to Countess Delfina Potocka, a friend of Chopin.
It is said to have been improvised to depict a puppy owned by his lover, George Sand, spinning in circles as it chased its tail.
The elegant atmosphere and the lively, playful feeling of a puppy are beautifully balanced.
With its consistently bright and light tone, it evokes a vivid image of a frolicking little dog right before your eyes.
In conclusion
Timeless waltz masterpieces, with their graceful triple-time rhythm, continue to be cherished across generations.
From iconic classical waltzes to beloved pieces featured in moving anime and television dramas, the rich world of the waltz is filled with boundless charm.
Why not find your favorite waltz and add a touch of elegance to your daily life? Through music, you’re sure to encounter new moments of inspiration.
May you continue to enjoy a richly fulfilling time accompanied by the strains of the waltz.