10 famous musical works you know, but can’t name

Have you ever had one of those moments where you’re watching a movie and the soundtrack comes on and you think: “where have I heard that before?” Or maybe you’re watching an old cartoon like Charlie Brown and Schroeder starts playing a familiar classical piece, and you think to yourself: “I know that piece, but I don’t the name!” If you’ve had one these moments, don’t worry, it happens to the best of us. (Especially me!)

I’ve compiled a short list of ten famous works (from classical to romantic to 21st century) that you’ve probably listened to, but can’t name. Enjoy!

(So in no particular order…)

Habanera (From Carmen Suite No. 2) By Bizet

[youtube 6fZRssq7UlM]

Habanera is an aria from the famous opera Carmen by Georges Bizet. (1838-1875) This little love song is used a lot in movies and commercials. It was even played during one scene in Up when Carl is going down stairs!

Symphony No. 5 in C minor By Beethoven

Dun-Dun-Dun-Duuuuuh! Ludwig van Beethoven‘s Symphony No. 5 is arguably the most well-known classical music piece ever. Its distinctive four note motive is recognized worldwide is often used in popular culture, television, and in movies.

Eine Kliene Nachtmusik (1st Movement: Allegro) By Mozart

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GT7_Y1pIBb4

This piece, which is actually called Serenade No. 13 for Strings in G Major is in my opinion, Mozart’s most famous work. The name this piece is commonly referred to, Eine Kliene Nachtmusik, means “A Little Night Music” in German. (I think the German title sounds cooler) This piece is often used as the soundtrack to fancy parties and balls in movies.

Romeo and Juliet Fantasy Overture By Tchaikovsky

This is the music that is played during those scenes where the two lovers are running towards each other in slow motion. The excerpt above is perfect for those “love at first sight” moments in movies.

Toccata & Fugue in d minor by JS Bach

This piece is the one that you hear the vampires playing in those scary Halloween movies. Spooky!

William Tell Overture (Finale) by Rossini

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gz_9FrhCBnI

There are actually four parts to the William Tell Overture, all of which are very popular. This portion in particular, the finale, is a favorite of mine. I really like the feeling of a charging cavalry you get in this piece, very exciting!

Also Sprach Zarathustra  by Strauss

This is the that really neat sounding piece in the movie 2001: A Space Odyssey.

Orpheus in the Underworld by Offenbach

Can-can, can you do the can-can?

Gayane: Sabre Dance by Khachaturian

A movement from the ballet Gayane, the Sabre Dance really makes me want to jump around! This is the piece that you often hear during circus performances in movies.

Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2 by Liszt

I remember watching Tom & Jerry as a kid and watching this performance over and over again. Well, now I know what its called!