The albums that define
art music.
Our picks for where to start with art music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top art music artists
Start with one of these.
The art music essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
Mina
Singolare
A lush blend of jazz-inflected pop and emotive balladry, showcasing Mina's powerful and versatile vocal prowess.
Start here
Mina
…bugiardo più che mai… più incosciente che mai…
Eclectic arrangements weave together pop, jazz, and bossa nova, showcasing Mina's versatile voice against lush instrumentation.
Start here
Frank Zappa
Everything Is Healing Nicely
A wild collage of musical styles blending humor, intricate compositions, and experimental soundscapes that challenge traditional rock norms.
Start here
Frank Zappa
Congress Shall Make No Law...
A sprawling, satirical journey through the absurdity of American politics layered with complex musical textures.
Start here
Yehudi Menuhin
West Meets East
'West Meets East' encapsulates Menuhin's artistic vision by blending Western classical music with Eastern influences. The cohesive listening experience builds an understanding of his musical philosophy and technical prowess.
Start here
Joe Jackson
Fool
A blend of jazz-inflected pop melodies and introspective lyrics, balancing lightness with profound emotional depth.
Start here
Joe Jackson
Look Sharp!
'Look Sharp!' captures the essence of Joe Jackson's early sound, highlighting his innovative fusion of genres. The album’s energy and lyrical wit set the stage for what makes his music engaging.
Start here
Jóhann Jóhannsson
Virðulegu Forsetar
A hauntingly immersive soundscape where orchestral textures intertwine with electronic minimalism, evoking a contemplative journey through time and space.
Start here
Jóhann Jóhannsson
Fordlandia
A sweeping orchestral landscape intertwines with minimalist electronic textures, evoking both nostalgia and existential contemplation.
Start here
Nik Bärtsch
Holon
A rhythmic exploration where minimalist jazz meets intricate funk structures, creating a meditative yet dynamic soundscape.
Start here
Nik Bärtsch
Randori
Intricate rhythmic patterns intertwine with ethereal melodies, creating a meditative soundscape that resonates with minimalism and jazz influences.
Start here
Miri Ben-Ari
The Hip-Hop Violinist
Eclectic fusion of hip-hop beats and classical violin, creating a vibrant soundscape that bridges genres seamlessly.
Start here
Walter Murphy
A Fifth of Beethoven
Disco-infused orchestral arrangements collide with lively rhythms, transforming classical motifs into vibrant dance tracks.
Start here
Alfred Schnittke
Rihm: Streichquartett no. 4 / Schnittke: Streichquartett no. 4
Start here
Alfred Schnittke
Ritual / (K)ein Sommernachtstraum / Passacaglia / Seid nüchtern und wachet (Faust Cantata)
Start here
By decade
Where art music landed in each era.