Classical piano playing is a great talent that many people have. The music that a classical piano player can perform is nearly endless. There are a variety of different musical genres that all encompass the skills that are learned in classical piano. Some of the genres do sound similar, but to a trained ear they are completely different. This is why so many people cannot tell you what a classical piece is, but they know that they have heard it before, or that something in it speaks to them.

Classical Piano Music Genres

The first genre in classical piano is the piano concerto. This is a work that consists of a large orchestral ensemble and either a small group or soloist. The piano is always the solo instrument in a piano concerto. Most often you will find a piano concerto split into three contrasting movements. Mozart and Chopin are famous for writing piano concertos.

The second genre is the piano sonata. The sonata has three or four movements in the piece and is exclusively for solo piano. Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata is one of the most famous sonatas in the history of classical piano.

A piano trio is a common form of chamber music that allows the piano t play with two other instruments. Usually, the form comes in piano, cello and violin. Also, there is the piano quintet that adds the classical piano to a full string quartet.

If you are looking for solo piano pieces, there are a variety of these as well. There is the etude, the prelude, the polonaise, the nocturne, the waltz and the ballade. An etude is a training exercise. A prelude is a short piece that sounds like an improvisation. A polonaise is a slow dance, similar to a waltz. A nocturne is a piece of music that has been inspired by the night. A waltz is a fold dance that comes in three quarter time. And a ballade is one movement of a large scale that contains dramatic qualities in the music.

Once you know a little more about the different types of piano music and the varying genres, you will be able to pick out the pieces that you like to listen to, or that sets the mood for a quiet evening. Classical piano pieces are mostly soothing, and can sometimes be large and dramatic. Some are just fun to dance to. Whatever you decide to play or listen to, you will be able to find something that speaks to you.