The 20 Best Songs to Play On Piano
Playing the piano is a wonderful journey of discovery and expression. Whether you’re just starting or you’ve been playing for years, mastering the best songs to play on piano can be both enjoyable and fulfilling.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 of the best songs to play on the piano, spanning different genres and difficulty levels, to inspire and guide pianists on their musical adventure.
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Best Songs to Play On Piano
“Für Elise” by Ludwig van Beethoven
This beautiful classical piece has a gentle melody that’s easy to learn, making it perfect for beginners. As you play, you’ll practice smooth finger movements and develop a sense of musical phrasing.
“River Flows in You” by Yiruma
A contemporary favourite, this song features a soothing melody and simple chords that are great for intermediate players. You’ll work on playing expressively and conveying emotion through your music.
“Clair de Lune” by Claude Debussy
This atmospheric piece is a bit more challenging but well worth the effort. As you play, you’ll explore delicate nuances in dynamics and touch, creating a dreamy ambience with each note.
“Let It Be” by The Beatles
A timeless classic with straightforward chords and a memorable melody, perfect for beginners looking to build their repertoire. It is one of the best songs to play on piano.
As you bring this iconic song to life, you’ll learn to play with feeling and expression.
“Moonlight Sonata” by Ludwig van Beethoven
This piece is a classical music masterpiece that offers a rewarding challenge for intermediate to advanced players. You’ll work on controlling dynamics and mastering intricate passages as you navigate its haunting melodies.
“Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen (performed by Jeff Buckley)
This soulful ballad provides an opportunity to explore dynamics and phrasing, as well as practice accompanying a vocal line. It’s a great choice for pianists looking to add depth to their playing.
“Prelude in C Major” by Johann Sebastian Bach
A timeless favourite among pianists, this prelude offers a chance to work on finger independence and agility. Its simple yet elegant melody is perfect for practising musical expression.
“All of Me” by John Legend
A contemporary hit with heartfelt lyrics and a catchy melody, ideal for pianists looking to develop their chord-playing skills. You’ll practice blending chords smoothly and maintaining a steady rhythm. It is one of the best songs to play on piano.
“Canon in D” by Johann Pachelbel
This beloved piece is known for its mesmerizing chord progression and melodic lines. As you play, you’ll work on building a sense of musical flow and expression.
“Someone Like You” by Adele
A poignant ballad with emotive piano accompaniment, providing pianists with an opportunity to explore dynamics and phrasing. You’ll practice conveying emotion through your playing as you bring this powerful song to life.
“Comptine d’un autre été: L’après-midi” by Yann Tiersen
A whimsical piece with delicate melodies and playful rhythms, perfect for developing finger dexterity and musical sensitivity. You’ll work on creating a sense of whimsy and charm with each note you play. It is one of the best songs to play on piano.
“Clocks” by Coldplay
An iconic rock anthem with a catchy piano riff, offering pianists a chance to work on rhythmic precision and dynamic control. You’ll practice playing with energy and flair as you bring this lively song to life.
“Nocturne in E-flat Major, Op. 9, No. 2” by Frédéric Chopin
A romantic masterpiece with lyrical melodies and expressive phrasing, providing pianists with an opportunity to explore subtleties of emotion and interpretation. You’ll practice shaping phrases and creating a sense of intimacy with your playing.
“The Entertainer” by Scott Joplin
A lively ragtime piece with syncopated rhythms and playful melodies, perfect for pianists looking to showcase their flair for improvisation and stylistic interpretation. You’ll work on capturing the lively spirit of ragtime music with your playing.
“Let It Go” from Frozen (performed by Idina Menzel)
A modern Disney classic with a powerful vocal melody and dramatic piano accompaniment, offering pianists a chance to engage audiences with expressive playing. You’ll practice playing with drama and emotion as you bring this beloved song to life.
“Furthest Land” by Kyle Landry
An original composition with sweeping melodies and intricate harmonies, showcasing pianists’ creativity and technical proficiency. You’ll work on blending different musical elements and creating a sense of narrative with your playing.
“My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion (from Titanic)
A timeless ballad with soaring vocals and emotive piano accompaniment, providing pianists with an opportunity to convey depth of emotion and sensitivity through their playing. You’ll practice playing with sensitivity and expression as you bring this iconic song to life.
“The Sound of Silence” by Simon & Garfunkel
A haunting folk-rock classic with evocative lyrics and a melancholic piano accompaniment, allowing pianists to explore subtleties of mood and atmosphere. You’ll work on creating a sense of intimacy and introspection with your playing.
“Rhapsody in Blue” by George Gershwin
A monumental jazz-inspired composition with virtuosic piano passages and lush orchestration, offering advanced pianists a chance to showcase their technical prowess and improvisational skills. It is one of the best songs to play on piano.
You’ll work on mastering intricate passages and capturing the vibrant energy of jazz music with your playing.
“La La Land Medley” by Justin Hurwitz (performed by Kyle Landry)
A medley of songs from the acclaimed film La La Land, featuring captivating melodies and jazz-infused harmonies. You’ll explore a range of musical styles and techniques, from lush ballads to energetic jazz numbers, as you bring this medley to life.
FAQs
Beethoven – ‘Moonlight’ Sonata.
Clara Schumann – Piano Concerto.
Debussy – Clair de Lune.
“Comptine D’un Autre Été” by Yann Tiersen
Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star. Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star is one of those songs that gets easily stuck in your head. This makes the song easy to learn on the piano if you are a beginner because you will not need to memorise it much.
If you are brand new to playing the piano, two to four short, easy pieces is all you need at a time.
Conclusion
Each of these songs offers pianists a unique opportunity for growth and exploration. Whether you’re drawn to classical masterpieces, contemporary hits, or timeless favourites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
