On 15 June, in some parts of the world, we honour a true superhero. He doesn’t wear a cape, and he’s bravely fought off monsters, mostly spiders. Father’s Day honours a hero who never misses a chance to say, “Money doesn’t grow on trees.”
We celebrate Father’s Day to recognise the guys who’ve worn every hat imaginable, all without asking for much in return. It’s a day to say thanks for unconditional support, and the subtle but heroic way he makes everything feel a little more solid.
Sure, they might not always show emotion unless it’s about a perfectly cooked steak or a good deal at the hardware store, but we know they care. To celebrate, let’s feature a selection of classical music to suit a variety of different moods, from reflective to triumphant.
Johann Sebastian Bach: Cello Suite No. 1, “Prelude”
Serene Optimism
The Bach Cello Suite No. 1 is a wonderful choice for Father’s Day, embodying the quiet strength, unwavering presence, and tender heart of fatherhood. The serene “Prelude” goes perfectly with a cup of morning coffee, mirroring a father’s multifaceted role ranging from patient to playful and profound.
Whether it’s the Prelude alone or the full 20-minute suite, this music honours a father’s love with a quiet elegance, saying what words sometimes can’t. It’s such versatile music as it can underscore a heartfelt card-giving moment or play softly during a backyard barbecue; its elegance never overwhelms the mood.
Antonín Dvořák: Symphony No. 9, “From the New World” (Largo)
A Musical Hug
The “Largo” from Dvořák’s Symphony “From the New World” is the ultimate Father’s Day tearjerker. The melody’s slow, haunting beauty is like Dad’s face when he’s “just resting his eyes” on the couch but really dreaming of his upcoming fishing trip.
The Largo’s magic is its ability to turn a Father’s Day moment into a comedy of heartfelt awkwardness. This movement’s slow pace is perfect for catching Dad in his natural habitat and making him feel like the king of the castle. The tender vibe will make everyone chuckle through the warm fuzzies.
Johannes Brahms: Hungarian Dance No. 5
Musical High-Five
The Hungarian Dance No. 5 is the ultimate Father’s Day banger, a fiery, foot-stomping classical piece that is like a musical high-five. It’s all about bold energy and swagger, perfect for the dad who thinks he’s the king of the grill.
This dance captures Dad’s larger-than-life spirit, from his heroic attempt to fix the sink to his epic dad-jokes. The piece’s wild tempo shifts are like Dad’s mood swings when he’s trying to assemble IKEA furniture; calm one second, full-on dramatic the next.
Why don’t you play it when the family is gathering for a backyard cookout, and it will get everyone giggling as Dad tries to conduct the music with a spatula.
Camille Saint-Saëns: Carnival of the Animals, “Elephants”
Lovable Giant
The “Elephant” from The Carnival of the Animals seems like a perfect Father’s Day tune because it’s basically Dad’s spirit animal in musical form. It’s absolutely lovable, with the plodding double bass capturing Dad’s big heart and slightly clumsy charm.
It has such a playful swagger, like Dad strutting around in his favourite cargo shorts, ready to tackle anything from a flat tire to a spider in the bathtub. It’s short, hilarious and perfect for Dad stealing the show with a big grin. Nothing says Father’s Day like music that’s as endearing as his snoring on the couch.
Superhero
If you’re looking for the ultimate Father’s Day anthem, just take a listen to the chest-puffing, brass-blaring Pomp and Circumstance March No. 1. It’s like Dad striding into the backyard having decided to conquer the grill, only to heroically battle a rogue ketchup bottle.
The march’s regal vibe is perfect for toasting his Dad’s legendary status, even if his legendary fishing stories get fishier every year. It’s a hilarious, heartwarming nod to Dad’s larger-than-life presence that matches his swagger.
So, whether it’s a soulful sway or a regal strut, let the music celebrate the guy who’s a hero and a comedian all wrapped into one. Nothing says “Thanks, Dad” like classical bangers that match his epic, if slightly chaotic vibe.
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