5 Longest Classical Works Ever Composed
Classical composers have always pushed the boundaries of artistic expression, but for some of them, the challenge has not just been finding the right notes, but creating works that stand the test of time. Quite literally. Ready to test your patience?
ASLSP (As Slow as Slow as Possible) by John Cage
Duration: 639 years
John Cage’s “As Slow as Possible” is not only the longest piece of classical music, it’s also the longest piece ever composed. Designed to be performed as slowly as possible, the current performance of this piece began in 2001 and is scheduled to last 639 years, ending in 2640. The work is performed on an organ in St. Burchardi’s Church in Halberstadt, Germany, with the notes changed only every few years.
„Vexations” by Erik Satie
Duration: 18-24 hours
“Vexations” is a unique work consisting of a short musical theme that is repeated 840 times. Although the piece itself is simple, the sheer number of repetitions can result in a performance lasting between 18 and 24 hours. Vexations was never performed in its entirety during Satie’s lifetime, but since then it has become a challenge that not many musicians can meet. In 1963, a group of pianists performed the piece in a marathon session, rotating through the night to complete it.
„The Ring of the Nibelungen” by Richard Wagner (Der Ring des Nibelungen)
Duration: 15-16 hours
Richard Wagner’s “The Ring of the Nibelungen” is one of the most monumental works in opera history. Composed of four separate operas, this epic cycle tells a complex tale of gods, heroes and mythical creatures, inspired by Norse mythology. The entire cycle is performed in about 15-16 hours, usually over four days. Wagner’s music is rich, dense and incredibly powerful, drawing listeners into a world as vast as the music itself.
„Well-Tempered Clavier” by Johann Sebastian Bach
Duration: about 4,5 hours
Bach’s “Well-Tempered Clavier” is a cornerstone of classical piano music, consisting of 48 preludes and fugues in all 24 major and minor keys. Performing the entire collection in a single session takes about 4.5 hours, making it a significant challenge for even the most skilled pianists. Often referred to as the “Old Testament” of piano music, the work is a profound exploration of musical harmony, structure and expression, representing a journey through the very essence of Bach’s genius.
“Symphony No 3” by Gustav Mahler (Symphony of the Thousand)
Duration: about 90-100 minutes
Gustav Mahler’s “Symphony No. 3” is not as long as some of the other pieces on this list, but it is still one of the longest symphonies ever composed. Lasting between 90 and 100 minutes, this monumental work is often performed with a large orchestra, a chorus and even a children’s choir, earning it the nickname “Symphony of a Thousand”. Mahler’s symphony is a deeply emotional and spiritual journey, exploring themes of nature, life and the universe.
These enduring musical compositions are not just endurance tests – they are masterpieces that offer a deep, immersive experience unlike any other. From the near-endless tones of John Cage’s “As Slow as Possible” to the emotional and dramatic journey of Wagner’s Ring of the Nibelungs, these compositions invite us to slow down and appreciate the art of music in its longest form.
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Akordaj is a platform created in the framework of the Spotlight on Music project, through the Erasmus+ program, funded by the European Union. The views and opinions expressed, however, are those of the author(s) alone and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the European Union or the ANPCDEFP. Neither the European Union nor the ANPCDEFP can be held responsible for them.
