Some of the most beautiful and impactful music ever created features the piano prominently. While defining the absolute best piano songs is subjective, we’ve compiled 50 exceptional pieces, spanning from the Baroque period to the 21st century, that demonstrate the piano’s enduring power in music. Few instruments offer such versatility across genres and such a profound capacity for emotional expression.
This list is presented chronologically. Where available, we’ve included links to free tutorials and sheet music to help you explore these songs further. For Pianote+ Members, remember to check the Song Library for even more resources. (Not a member yet? Start your free trial today!) We encourage you to listen to these incredible pieces and perhaps even learn to play some of them yourself!
#1. Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor – J.S. Bach (1722)
Bach’s Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor, from The Well-Tempered Clavier, exemplifies his mastery of counterpoint. This piece showcases Bach’s ability to intricately weave together multiple voices into a cohesive and complex musical tapestry. It stands as a testament to Baroque ingenuity and a cornerstone of classical piano music.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#2. “Turkish March” – Mozart (1784)
Sheet MusicTutorial and Condensed Sheet Music
The “Turkish March,” the third movement of Mozart’s Piano Sonata No. 11, is instantly recognizable and brilliantly captures a sense of exotic flair. Composed in a modified rondo form, the piece is thought to be inspired by the sounds of Turkish Janissary bands, popular in Europe at the time, showcasing Mozart’s ability to incorporate diverse musical influences.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#3. “Moonlight” Sonata – Beethoven (1802)
Tutorial and Sheet Music
Beethoven’s Piano Sonata No. 14, Op. 27, No. 2, known universally as the “Moonlight Sonata,” evokes a serene and reflective mood. The nickname wasn’t Beethoven’s own; it was given later by music critic Ludwig Rellstab, who likened the first movement’s atmosphere to moonlight shimmering on Lake Lucerne, highlighting the piece’s evocative and romantic character.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#4. “Für Elise” – Beethoven (1810)
Tutorial and Sheet Music
“Für Elise,” one of Beethoven’s most famous compositions, is shrouded in mystery regarding the identity of Elise herself. Despite the unknown dedicatee – potentially Therese Malfatti, Elizabeth Röckel, or Juliane Katherine Elisabet “Elise” Barensfeld – the piece’s simple yet unforgettable melody has made it a beloved and widely recognized piano piece.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#5. Nocturne in E-Flat Major – Chopin (1830-31)
Tutorial with Original, Simplified, and Beginner Sheet Music
Chopin, a master of the piano, composed numerous iconic pieces, including the Nocturne in E-Flat Major. This nocturne is a quintessential example of Romantic-era piano music, showcasing Chopin’s gift for melody and expressive harmonies. It’s a piece that embodies the elegance and emotional depth characteristic of his style.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#6. Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2 – Liszt (1847)
Liszt’s Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2, famously featured in Tom and Jerry, exemplifies the composer’s virtuosity and dramatic flair. Franz Liszt, considered the first rock star of the piano, crafted this rhapsody to showcase both dazzling technical skill and passionate musical expression, making it a thrilling and captivating piece.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#7. Piano Concerto No. 1 – Tchaikovsky (1875)
Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 is a majestic and instantly recognizable work. Its powerful melodies and grand orchestration have made it a favorite for audiences worldwide. Notably, it was even used in place of the Russian anthem during the 2022 Winter Olympics, highlighting its enduring cultural significance and impact.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#8. “Chopsticks” aka “The Celebrated Chop Waltz” – Euphemia Allen (1877)
“Chopsticks,” also known as “The Celebrated Chop Waltz,” is a deceptively simple tune with a charming history. Composed by 16-year-old Euphemia Allen, it was originally intended to be played with a “chopping” hand motion. Today, this accessible and fun piece is enjoyed by beginners and professionals alike, even inspiring collaborations between artists like Lang Lang and Jon Batiste.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#9. Gymnopédie No. 1 – Erik Satie (1888)
Tutorial and Simplified Sheet MusicSheet Music (Original)
Erik Satie’s Gymnopédie No. 1 is a piece of understated beauty and tranquility. This peaceful and somewhat melancholic work reflects the eccentric nature of its composer, Erik Satie, known for his unconventional lifestyle and minimalist approach to composition, making this piece a unique and captivating listening experience.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#10. Piano Concerto No. 2 – Rachmaninoff (1900-1901)
Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2 is a work of immense emotional depth and dramatic power. Born from a period of recovery after a mental breakdown, this concerto is dedicated to the doctor who aided his healing. It’s now considered one of the most legendary and beloved piano concertos, showcasing Rachmaninoff’s signature romantic style and melodic gifts.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#11. “The Entertainer” – Scott Joplin (1902)
Original Sheet MusicTutorial and Simplified Sheet Music
Scott Joplin’s “The Entertainer,” often recognized as “the ice cream truck song,” is a quintessential ragtime piece. Joplin, known as the “King of Ragtime,” created this genre, a vibrant precursor to jazz, heavily centered around the piano. His groundbreaking opera, Treemonisha, further solidified his legacy, though it wasn’t fully appreciated during his lifetime.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#12. “Clair de lune” – Debussy (1905)
Sheet Music (Original)Tutorial and Simplified Sheet Music
Debussy’s “Clair de lune” is a universally loved piece, known for its peaceful, ethereal, and mesmerizing qualities. Considered a rite of passage for many pianists, this beautiful work, despite its five flats, remains an attainable goal for intermediate players and a captivating experience for listeners.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#13. “Rhapsody in Blue” – George Gershwin (1924)
“Rhapsody in Blue” by George Gershwin is a groundbreaking piece that bridges classical and jazz idioms. Written for solo piano and jazz band, it’s a unique and energetic fusion of musical styles, showcasing Gershwin’s innovative approach and his ability to blend American musical traditions.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#14. “Ain’t Misbehavin’” – Fats Waller (1929)
Fats Waller’s “Ain’t Misbehavin’” is a jazz standard that exudes charm and playfulness. First recorded by Waller in 1929, it quickly became one of the most recorded songs of the early 20th century, covered by over 300 artists, solidifying its place as a timeless piece of American popular music.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#15. “Heart and Soul” – Frank Loesser and Hoagy Carmichael (1938)
“Heart and Soul,” by Frank Loesser and Hoagy Carmichael, is a familiar tune often played by beginner pianists. While simple in its most recognized form, it’s actually a sophisticated jazz standard with a complete middle section often omitted in simpler versions. Its foundation lies in the classic I-vi-IV-V “doo-wop” chord progression.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#16. “Take the ‘A’ Train” – Duke Ellington (1941)
Duke Ellington’s “Take the ‘A’ Train,” penned by Billy Strayhorn, is a vibrant and energetic jazz classic. Considered Ellington’s signature tune, it captures the excitement of the jazz age. Another notable mention from Ellington is the more mellow and introspective “In a Sentimental Mood.”
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#17. “Misty” – Erroll Garner (1954)
Erroll Garner’s “Misty” began as an instrumental piece before becoming a beloved vocal standard. Johnny Mathis, captivated by the melody, requested Johnny Burke to add lyrics. The song gained immense popularity, especially after its prominent feature in the film Play Misty For Me, becoming a jazz ballad classic.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#18. “Tutti Frutti” – Little Richard (1955)
Little Richard’s “Tutti Frutti” is a high-energy rock and roll anthem with an interesting backstory. Originally a filler piece in his performances, its initial lyrics were deemed too explicit and were rewritten. Little Richard’s flamboyant performance style and groundbreaking androgynous image paved the way for future iconic music figures.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#19. “Waltz for Debby” – Bill Evans (1956)
Bill Evans’ “Waltz for Debby” is a tender and graceful jazz waltz. Named after Evans’ niece, Debby Evans, the song first appeared on his 1956 album New Jazz Conceptions. It was later re-recorded for the 1962 album Waltz for Debby, a poignant release as bassist Scott LaFaro tragically passed away shortly after its recording.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#20. “Take Five” – Dave Brubeck (1959)
Dave Brubeck’s “Take Five” is a groundbreaking jazz piece known for its unusual 5/4 time signature. Featured on the album Time Out, which explored unconventional time signatures, “Take Five” became a surprise hit despite its rhythmic complexity, demonstrating Brubeck’s innovative approach to jazz composition.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#21. “Hit the Road Jack” – Ray Charles (1961)
Ray Charles’ “Hit the Road Jack,” written by Percy Hayfield, is a bluesy and iconic song. Built upon the Andalusian Cadence, a descending chord progression, its catchy melody and call-and-response vocals propelled it to the top of the Billboard charts and solidified it as one of Ray Charles’ signature hits.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#22. “Watermelon Man” – Herbie Hancock (1962)
Herbie Hancock’s “Watermelon Man” was his first single with Blue Note Records, written at just 22 years old. While initially well-received, Mongo Santamaria’s 1963 Latin-infused version propelled the song to mainstream success. Hancock revisited the song on his influential 1973 album Head Hunters, further showcasing its versatility.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#23. “C-Jam Blues” – as played by Oscar Peterson (1963)
“C-Jam Blues,” originally by the Duke Ellington Orchestra in 1941, is best known in Oscar Peterson’s virtuosic rendition. This 12-bar blues in C major is incredibly simple melodically, using only two notes. However, in the hands of a master like Peterson, it transforms into a breathtaking display of jazz improvisation and piano skill.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#24. “Christmas Time Is Here” from Peanuts – Vince Guaraldi Trio (1964)
Tutorial
Vince Guaraldi Trio’s “Christmas Time Is Here” is synonymous with the holiday season, particularly through A Charlie Brown Christmas. The film’s producer, Lee Mendelson, penned the lyrics quickly, adding to the song’s simple yet heartfelt charm that perfectly captures the nostalgic feeling of Christmas.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#25. “Let It Be” – The Beatles (1970)
Tutorial
The Beatles’ “Let It Be” is a timeless anthem of hope and reassurance. Written by Paul McCartney during the band’s tumultuous breakup period, it’s inspired by a dream of his late mother, Mary, offering comfort. Based on a simple I-V-vi-IV chord progression, its message of peace and acceptance resonates universally.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#26. “Your Song” – Elton John (1970)
Elton John and Bernie Taupin’s “Your Song” is a classic ballad that launched their careers. Written early in their partnership, with lyrics by Bernie penned on simple exercise paper and melody by Elton in minutes, it captures raw emotion and sincerity, becoming a defining song for both artists.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#27. “Tiny Dancer” – Elton John (1971)
Tutorial
Elton John’s “Tiny Dancer” is an epic ballad with lyrics by Bernie Taupin dedicated to his future wife, Maxine Feibelman. While not initially a major hit, its inclusion in the film Almost Famous propelled it to iconic status, becoming a singalong favorite and showcasing Elton’s storytelling through music.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#28. “Imagine” – John Lennon (1971)
Tutorial
John Lennon’s “Imagine” is a globally recognized anthem for peace and unity. Inspired by a Christian prayer book and Yoko Ono’s poetry, the song’s simple piano melody and utopian lyrics have made it one of the most influential and covered songs of all time, transcending generations and borders.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#29. “Lean On Me” – Bill Withers (1972)
Bill Withers’ “Lean On Me” is a comforting and soulful ballad about friendship and support. Inspired by the type of unconditional love that endures through hardship, Withers crafted a timeless message of human connection that resonates deeply, making it a go-to song in times of need and unity.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#30. “Piano Man” – Billy Joel (1973)
Tutorial
Billy Joel’s “Piano Man” is his signature song, narrating his experiences as a lounge pianist. Based on his time playing in a Los Angeles bar at age 24, the song’s characters are drawn from real-life patrons, creating a vivid and relatable story set to a memorable and singable melody.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#31. “Bohemian Rhapsody” – Queen (1975)
Tutorial
Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” is an operatic rock masterpiece, instantly recognizable from its piano intro. Freddie Mercury combined what he thought were three separate songs into a six-minute epic, filled with complex harmonies and vocal overdubs, pushing the boundaries of popular music and creating a truly unique and enduring work.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#32. “Don’t Stop Believin’” – Journey (1981)
Tutorial
Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” is an anthemic rock classic, inspiring generations. Keyboardist Jonathan Cain’s father’s encouragement to “don’t stop believin'” inspired the song’s uplifting message. Its powerful vocals and driving piano chords have made it a staple in pop culture and one of the most popular rock songs ever.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#33. “November Rain” – Guns N’ Roses
Guns N’ Roses’ “November Rain” is a rock ballad of epic proportions, featuring Axl Rose’s piano and soaring guitar solos. Rose worked on the song for nearly a decade, and its elaborate music video, with a million-dollar budget, became an MTV sensation, contributing to the song’s legendary status in rock history.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#34. Theme from Forrest Gump – Alan Silvestri (1994)
Alan Silvestri’s Theme from Forrest Gump is a heartwarming and memorable film score piece. The Academy Award-winning film’s theme perfectly captures the film’s nostalgic and emotional tone. Silvestri’s diverse filmography includes scores for Back to the Future and The Polar Express, showcasing his range and talent.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#35. “Angel” – Sarah McLachlan (1997)
Sarah McLachlan’s “Angel” is a poignant ballad often associated with compassionate themes. Inspired by an article about Smashing Pumpkins keyboardist Jonathan Melvoin’s overdose, McLachlan wrote “Angel” to express empathy for his struggles with loneliness and burnout, later finding a powerful connection with animal welfare causes.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#36. “River Flows In You” – Yiruma (2001)
TutorialTheory Analysis
Yiruma’s “River Flows In You” is a contemporary classical piece immensely popular among piano learners. Released in 2001, it gained further recognition through association with the Twilight saga and experienced a surge in popularity during the pandemic as many turned to piano learning at home.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#37. “Mad World” – Gary Jules, Tears for Fears – from Donnie Darko (2001)
Tutorial
Gary Jules’ piano-driven rendition of “Mad World,” originally by Tears for Fears, gained fame through the film Donnie Darko. While the original Tears for Fears version was synth-pop influenced, Jules’ haunting and stripped-down piano arrangement gave the song a new layer of emotional depth and resonance.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#38. “Comptine d’un autre été: L’Après-Midi” – Yann Tiersen – from Amélie (2001)
Tutorial
Yann Tiersen’s “Comptine d’un autre été: L’Après-Midi” is a delicate and charming piece from the Amélie soundtrack. Director Jean-Pierre Jeunet discovered Tiersen’s music serendipitously, leading to Tiersen composing 19 pieces for the film in just two weeks, perfectly capturing the whimsical and nostalgic atmosphere of Amélie.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#39. “One Summer’s Day” – Joe Hisaishi – from Spirited Away (2001)
Joe Hisaishi’s “One Summer’s Day” from Spirited Away is a wondrous and nostalgic anime soundtrack piece. When Spirited Away won an Oscar, Hisaishi’s score gained international recognition, becoming a favorite among anime enthusiasts and piano players for its evocative melodies and emotional depth.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#40. “Clocks” – Coldplay (2002)
Tutorial
Coldplay’s “Clocks” is a piano-driven hit with an iconic and cyclical piano riff. Initially intended for their third album, Coldplay delayed their second album’s release to include “Clocks.” The piano intro’s rhythmic and harmonic structure evokes the passage of time, becoming a signature element of the song.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#41. “The Scientist” – Coldplay (2002)
Tutorial
Coldplay’s “The Scientist” is another piano-prominent ballad from the same era. Chris Martin described the song as being fundamentally “about girls,” highlighting how personal relationships often overshadow even major world events in emotional impact, conveyed through a melancholic piano melody.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#42. “A Thousand Miles” – Vanessa Carlton (2002)
Vanessa Carlton’s “A Thousand Miles” is a defining pop hit of the 2000s, instantly recognizable by its piano intro. Initially titled “Interlude,” the song was almost overlooked before producer Ron Fair recognized its potential. It became a massive hit, featured in films like White Chicks, and a popular road trip anthem.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#43. “If I Ain’t Got You” – Alicia Keys (2003)
Alicia Keys’ “If I Ain’t Got You” is a soulful ballad expressing the value of love over material wealth. Inspired by the passing of Aaliyah and reflecting on what truly matters in life, Keys quickly wrote the song, though its production proved more challenging, ultimately becoming a signature song for her.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#44. “Nuvole Bianche” – Ludovico Einaudi (2004)
Tutorial
Ludovico Einaudi’s “Nuvole Bianche” is a popular contemporary classical piece known for its accessibility and beauty. Meaning “white clouds,” the song from his album Una Mattina is built upon a simple vi-IV-I-V chord progression, making it both emotionally resonant and relatively easy to play.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#45. “Sunday Morning” – Maroon 5 (2004)
Tutorial
Maroon 5’s “Sunday Morning” is a laid-back and jazzy pop song perfect for relaxing weekends. Its smooth ii-V-I chord progression in C major creates its signature relaxed vibe. The simple chord structure makes it accessible to play, with opportunities to enhance it with chord extensions.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#46. “Gravity” – Sara Bareilles (2007)
Tutorial
Sara Bareilles’ “Gravity” is a powerful ballad about the push and pull of relationships. Bareilles described it as emerging from a dramatic high school breakup. Like “Sunday Morning,” it utilizes the jazzy ii-V-I progression, giving it a sophisticated harmonic foundation beneath its emotional lyrics.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#47. “Married Life” – Michael Giacchino – Theme from Up (2009)
Tutorial
Michael Giacchino’s “Married Life” from Up is an emotionally resonant and iconic film theme. This piece, which won Giacchino an Academy Award, narrates a life’s journey in its opening montage. Starting optimistically and becoming more complex, it mirrors the joys and challenges of marriage.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#48. “Someone Like You” – Adele (2011)
Tutorial
Adele’s “Someone Like You” is a heartbreaking ballad about heartbreak and acceptance. Inspired by the news of her ex-partner moving on, Adele captured raw vulnerability and longing in this song. Its simple piano accompaniment emphasizes the emotional power of her voice and lyrics.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#49. Theme from Interstellar – Hans Zimmer (2014)
Tutorial
Hans Zimmer’s Theme from Interstellar is a powerful and evocative film score masterpiece. Created when Christopher Nolan gave Zimmer a letter for inspiration without revealing the film’s plot, the theme captures the epic and cosmic scale of Interstellar, showcasing Zimmer’s mastery of creating atmosphere through music.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
#50. Theme from Succession – Nicholas Britell (2019)
Nicholas Britell’s Theme from Succession is an instantly recognizable and dramatic TV theme. Britell’s blend of classical melodies with hip-hop beats creates a unique and memorable soundscape that perfectly embodies the intrigue and tension of the Succession series, making it a standout in contemporary television scores.
Sheet music excerpt for Bach Prelude and Fugue No. 2 in C Minor
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