Classical Music Albums You Must Listen to Right Now

We’ve rounded up a selection of classical music albums that you need to listen to right now, including works by Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms.

Beethoven: Symphony No. 5 in C Minor

Released in 1808, Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony is one of the most well-known classical pieces in the world. The work is in four movements, and the famous opening four notes of the first movement have become some of the most recognized in all of music. If you’re looking for a place to start with Beethoven, this is it.

Mozart: Symphony No. 40 in G Minor

Mozart: Symphony No. 40 in G Minor is one of the greatest classical music albums of all time. Released in 1788, the album is known for its beautiful melodies and poignant themes. It is widely considered to be Mozart’s finest work, and is one of the most popular pieces of classical music ever written. If you are a fan of classical music, or if you simply want to experience some of the best music ever created, then you must listen to Mozart: Symphony No. 40 in G Minor.

Bach: The Well-Tempered Clavier

There are many different interpretations of Bach’s The Well-Tempered Clavier, but this one by pianist Glenn Gould is considered by many to be one of the best. Gould’s performance is masterful, and his use of rubato (deliberate changes in tempo) brings out the emotion in the music. If you’re new to classical music, this is a great album to start with.

Brahms: Symphony No. 1 in C Minor

It’s impossible to overstate the importance of Brahms’ First Symphony. Not only did it firmly establish Brahms’ voice as a major force in the symphonic tradition, but its success also single-handedly rehabilitated the genre after the disastrous reception of Beethoven’s Ninth. Somehow, despite being in many ways a very traditional work, the symphony also managed to sound fresh and new. It’s been said that the first four notes of the opening movement are some of the most famous in all of music, and it’s not hard to see why: they set up an unstoppable forward momentum that carries the entire work.

Haydn: The Creation

One of the most popular oratorios of all time, Haydn’s The Creation has become a mainstay of the choral repertoire. First performed in 1798, The Creation is based on the book of Genesis and tells the story of the creation of the world. With its catchy tunes and exciting choruses, The Creation is a great introduction to classical music for newcomers.

Schubert: Symphony No. 8 in B Minor

Franz Schubert’s Symphony No. 8 in B Minor, known as the “Unfinished Symphony”, is one of the most popular pieces of classical music ever written. The work was incomplete at the time of Schubert’s death in 1828, and was not discovered until 1865. It is believed that Schubert put the work aside due to its hauntingly beautiful melody, which he felt would never be finished.

This album features conductor Riccardo Muti leading the Vienna Philharmonic in a performance of the unfinished symphony. The Viennese orchestra brings a special richness and warmth to the music, making this an excellent recording for any classical music fan.

Mendelssohn: Symphony No. 3 in A Minor

This work, Mendelssohn’s last symphony, was composed in 1842 and first performed in London the following year. The young Mendelssohn had already achieved great success with his first two symphonies, and this work solidified his reputation as a master of the genre. The Symphony No. 3 is notable for its lyrical beauty and expansive melodies, which are characteristic of Mendelssohn’s style.

Dvorak: Symphony No. 9 in E Minor

One of the most popular symphonies of all time, Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9 in E Minor is a must-listen for any classical music fan. This work is overflowing with beautiful melodies, and the Czech composer’s use of harmony and counterpoint is simply masterful. If you’re looking for a moving and emotional experience, this is the album for you.

Tchaikovsky: Swan Lake

Tchaikovsky: Swan Lake is one of the most popular and beloved classical music albums of all time. The album features Tchaikovsky’s iconic ballet score, performed by some of the world’s most renowned orchestras and soloists. If you’re a fan of classical music, or simply looking for a classic album to add to your collection, Tchaikovsky: Swan Lake is a must-listen.

Mahler: Symphony No. 5 in C Sharp Minor

One of the most popular classical music albums of all time, Mahler’s Symphony No. 5 in C Sharp Minor is a must-listen for any classical music lover. Conducted by Leonard Bernstein, this album features the New York Philharmonic Orchestra and is widely considered to be one of the best recordings of the symphony.