[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!
- Famous German folk song | That Japanese tune was actually a German folk song?!
- Polka masterpieces. Recommended popular songs.
- [Nostalgic Collection] Classic oldies masterpieces. Recommended popular songs
- [2026] Iconic musical numbers: from the latest releases to timeless classics!
- Cool! Introducing classic masterpieces of Argentine tango
- [Tango] Famous Tango Songs: Recommended Popular Tracks
- Also great as café music! Introducing famous tunes to savor the charm of musette
- [Famous Songs of the World] A curated introduction to soul-stirring popular Latin mambo tracks
- Chanson masterpieces. Recommended popular songs.
- [Western Music] The World of Power Ballads: A Collection of Must-Listen Gems to Start With
- Masterpieces and history of folklore: An introduction to traditional music of the South American Andes
- [2026] A Guide to Country Music: From the Latest Hits to Classic Favorites
- Everything is stylish! Popular music in France
[Classical] Famous Waltzes: Recommended Popular Pieces (31–40)
Mary’s Golden Wedding AnniversaryJean Gabriel Marie
A gavotte-like piece by the French composer Gabriel Marie.
The French title “Cinquantaine” means “50” and literally refers to a “golden wedding,” the 50th wedding anniversary traditionally celebrated with gifts of gold.
It begins with a dignified atmosphere and a touch of melancholy in the melody, then shifts in the middle section to a bright, powerfully celebratory mood.
Combining grandeur with a clear, radiant character, its beautiful melody has led to numerous arrangements for various ensembles.
Waltz, Op. 65 No. 6Sergei Prokofiev
The sixth piece from the collection of 12 miniatures, Music for Children.
Around 1935, when this piece was composed, the Soviet Communist Party demanded that artists produce works that were clear and accessible, while also encouraging the creation of “artistically excellent works” for children.
In an environment where works that deviated from these expectations were harshly criticized, Prokofiev assembled a set of small pieces with classical, easily graspable folk-like ideas, while peppering them with musical elements characteristic of his own style.
In this piece, over an accompaniment that beats out a cheerful waltz rhythm, a melody marked by leaping intervals unfolds as if whirling into dance.
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.
Tales of the Vienna WoodsJohann Strauss II
A symbolic work of Viennese music, this piece expresses the patriotism of Johann Strauss II, who was born in Vienna.
The beautiful green belt known as the Vienna Woods has long been a place of relaxation for people from the past to the present, and it is said that Strauss II was moved by its natural beauty to compose this work.
Its most notable feature is the zither solo.
The zither is a folk instrument from the regions spanning southern Germany to Austria, and it is said that Strauss used it to represent the fusion of the capital, Vienna, with its surrounding areas.