Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto takes out #1 in the ABC Classic 100: Piano – The results are in: Beethoven’s Fifth Piano Concerto, The Emperor, reigns as Australia’s favourite piano piece in the ABC Classic 100: Piano.
With its third triumph in a Classic 100, The Emperor once again claims its place in the hearts and minds of music lovers across Australia. It’s music that pushed the boundaries of the piano and transformed how composers used the instrument.
Australians not only chose The Emperor as their favourite work but also cemented Beethoven as one of their most-loved composers, with nine placements across this year’s Classic 100—including the impressive Moonlight Sonata in at #2.
The poet of the piano, Frédéric Chopin, rounded out the top places with his Nocturnes claiming #3. Tied with Beethoven, Chopin also secured nine places in this year’s Classic 100.
Over the weekend, ABC Classic unveiled Australia’s favourite 100 piano pieces in one of the most celebrated countdowns in its 24-year history. With nearly 140,000 votes cast, this year’s event set new milestones—featuring the highest representation of female composers to date, with 11 works by seven composers. The countdown also showcased 27 pieces by living composers, 11 works by Australians, and 19 beloved piano compositions written for the screen.
The Classic 100 celebrations continue with Classic 100 in Concert, premiering Saturday, 21 June at 7.30pm on ABC TV and ABC iview. Hosted by Dr Megan Burslem and Jeremy Fernandez, the event will bring Australia’s favourite piano pieces to life, featuring the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Benjamin Northey. Acclaimed pianist Andrea Lam, host of ABC’s The Piano, joins a stellar lineup of guests for a night of extraordinary performances.
The full program and artist announcement will be revealed on Tuesday, 10 June. Head to the ABC Classic website for tickets and more information.
ABC Classic thanks our loyal and passionate audience for listening, voting and tuning in to this year’s Classic 100. Relive the Classic 100 via the ABC listen app. For more info and stats about the countdown, head to the ABC Classic 100 website or connect via Instagram and Facebook.
Media Release – ABC
Link to ABC iview HERE
TV Central ABC content HERE
Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto takes out #1 in the ABC Classic 100: Piano
