Here is a list of 10 pieces of classical music everyone should listen to
Rachmaninoff: Piano Concerto No. 2 in C minor
After the mediocre reception of his first concerto and first symphony, Rachmaninoff was left in a depression during which he composed virtually nothing. This piece signified his recovery and established him as a great composer. The piece is an instant classic and loved by pretty much everyone due to its tear jerking melodies and warm, rich harmonies.
Here it is played by Arthur Rubinstein
Chopin: Ballad No. 4 in F minor
A piece widely loved among musicians and a fan favorite of Chopin’s work, certainly my favorite at least. The piece starts out deceptively calm and serene, but as the piece develops, it becomes more and more fiery, dramatic and complex. It’s incredibly technically challenging and a real feat to learn, but very rewarding.
Another great rendition by Rubinstein
Debussy: Images, Book 1: No. 1. Reflets dans L’eau
As the title suggests, the piece conjures up images of various states of light reflecting off the water. The piece is very impressionistic and being one of Debussy’s later works, he utilizes non-conventional harmonies and ambiguous keys to express various senses, colors and emotions.
Here it is performed by James Boyk
Stravinsky: Trois mouvements de Petrouchka
A shortened version of Stravinsky’s ballet ‘Petrouchka’ transcribed for piano by the composer himself for Arthur Rubinstein. Not to be confused with the composers other ballet ‘Rite of Spring’ which famously caused a riot in Paris at its premier. This one is a little bit more conventional than ‘Rite of Spring’ while still being musically innovative. If you enjoy this transcription, consider listening to the full ballet suite.
Mahler: Symphony No. 5 in C-Sharp minor
Warning: this piece is a Titan. Typically over an hour in length, the piece has incredible emotional range. Fittingly so as it consists of 5 lengthy movements. Save it for a time when you can listen to it all the way through, its well worth the time.
Conducted by Leonard Bernstein with the Vienna Philharmonic
Brahms: 3 Intermezzos, Op. 117
Some of Brahms’s latest works were composed as late as 1892. These pieces are not as complex as his symphonies, concerti, or sonatas but are far more intimate and introspective. The Intermezzo’s are some of Brahms most widely loved compositions.
Here is a great rendition by pianist Radu Lupu
Ravel: Piano Concerto in G major
During his time in the states, Ravel was heavily inspired by jazz music. This pieces is a blend of his more French impressionistic style with the jazz stylings prominent in the states. While the first and third movements are very fast and jazzy, the second movement is slow and serene.
J. S. Bach: English Suite No. 2 in A minor
Not much to say about this one other than its my personal favorite of Bach’s suites. It’s Bach keyboard music in all its glory.
Here is a great recording by legendary Bach specialist Glenn Gould.
Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-Flat major ’emporer’
Devoid of any of the angst that Beethoven is commonly associated with, this piece highlights his often overlooked sensitivity. This piece is also arguably the most influential concerti due to its unconventional form and length.
Sibelius: Violin Concerto in D minor
Sibelius was a composer from Finland. Reflective of the country’s long winters and short days the piece has a cold and dark atmosphere. The first 2 movements are more lyrical while the final movement is more dance like, once nicknamed the polar bear polonaise.
