New Classical Music Releases You Need to Hear

Keep up with the latest in new classical music releases with this handy guide.

The Best New Classical Music Releases

It’s hard to keep up with all the new classical music releases, so we’ve collected some of the best for you in one place. From major label debuts to innovative independents, these are the recordings you need to hear.

Major label debuts
-WanIDA: Violin Concerto Op. posth. – Anne-Sophie Mutter, Deutsche Grammophon
-Shostakovich: Symphonies Nos. 5 & 9 – Kirill Karabits, BIS

Innovative independents
-Haydn: The Creation – John Butt, Linn Records
-The Tallis Scholars Sing Tudor Church Music – Gimell Records

1. “The Rite of Spring” by Stravinsky

1. “The Rite of Spring” by Stravinsky
Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring” was one of the most influential pieces of the 20th century. It was premiered in 1913 and caused a riot at the premiere. The music is still shocking today and is considered one of the most important pieces of classical music ever written.

2. “The Four Seasons” by Vivaldi

This is one of the most popular and recognizable classical pieces ever written, and for good reason. Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons” is lively, upbeat, and just plain fun to listen to. If you’re looking for something to put a smile on your face, this is it.

3. “The Nutcracker Suite” by Tchaikovsky

This well-known holiday piece was composed by Tchaikovsky in 1892 and has been a Christmas classic ever since. The “Nutcracker Suite” is actually a compilation of 8 different pieces from Tchaikovsky’s ballet, “The Nutcracker”. While the complete ballet runs just over an hour, the suite is a much shorter 30 minutes, making it a perfect listen for those who want to enjoy the beauty of Tchaikovsky’s music without sitting through a long performance.

4. “Carmen” by Bizet

“Carmen” by Bizet is a seductive and tragic tale of love, jealousy, and betrayal, set in Spain. It is one of the most popular operas of all time, and its popularity has only increased in recent years with productions like Baz Luhrmann’s “Moulin Rouge!”

The story centers around the beautiful gypsy Carmen, who works in a tobacco factory. She is courted by the corporal Don Jose, but she ultimately reject him for the bullfighter Escamillo. This sets off a chain of events that leads to tragedy.

The music of “Carmen” is some of the most popular and iconic in all of opera. The Habanera, whichopens the opera, is one of the best-known pieces of classical music in the world. Other memorable tunes include the recitative “L’amour est un oiseau rebelle” and the aria “Je dis que rien ne m’épouvante.”

If you’re new to opera, or just looking for a classic to add to your collection, “Carmen” is an essential piece of work.

5. “The Messiah” by Handel

One of the most popular pieces of classical music, Handel’s “Messiah” is a must-hear for all classical fans. This powerful oratorio tells the story of the life of Christ, from his birth to his death and resurrection. Featuring some of the most beautiful andmoving music ever written, “The Messiah” is an unforgettable work that will leave you inspired and uplifted.

6. “Symphony No. 5” by Beethoven

Beethoven’s “Symphony No. 5” is one of the most well-known and beloved pieces of classical music in the world. The main theme, often called the “Fate” motif, is instantly recognizable, even to those who are not familiar with classical music. The work as a whole is an excellent example of Beethoven’s revolutionary compositional style, which sought to break away from the past and create something new and innovative.

7. “Canon in D” by Pachelbel

This classic piece by Pachelbel is one of the most popular pieces of classical music of all time. It has been used in countless movies and TV shows, and is a favorite of weddings and other formal occasions. “Canon in D” is a beautiful piece that is sure to please any classical music lover.

8. “Swan Lake” by Tchaikovsky

This classic ballet by Tchaikovsky has been adapted for the stage many times, but this new release by the Mariinsky Theatre is a must-see. The production features breathtaking sets and costumes, and the performances by the dancers are truly mesmerizing. If you’re a fan of classical music, this is one release you definitely don’t want to miss.

9. “The Barber of Seville” by Rossini

One of the most popular operas of all time, “The Barber of Seville” was composed by Gioachino Rossini and first performed in Rome in 1816. The story centers around the lovely Rosina, who is being kept virtual prisoner by her guardian, Dr. Bartolo. Rosina pines for the young Count Almaviva, who poses as a poor student in order to gain access to her. Almaviva enlists the help of Figaro, the barber of Seville, to outwit Bartolo and win Rosina’s hand. Filled with energy and invention, Rossini’s score is one of the cornerstones of the operatic repertoire.

10. “The Planets” by Holst

“The Planets” is one of the most popular pieces of classical music ever composed, and for good reason. The seven-movement suite is a tour de force of orchestral writing, and it’s fascinating to hear how Holst manages to musically depict the different planets in our solar system. This new recording by the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment is conducted by Sir Simon Rattle and features some of the best soloists in the world.