The iconic piece continues to hold its position as Britain’s favourite classical composition.

Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No. 2 has claimed the top spot in Classic FM’s annual Hall of Fame poll for the second consecutive year, further cementing its place as Britain’s favourite piece of classical music. The renowned Russian composer’s masterpiece, completed in 1901, remains highly regarded not only for its beauty but also for the emotional journey Rachmaninov underwent during its creation. The concerto was dedicated to his doctor, Nikolai Dahl, who supported him through a difficult period of depression.

The poll, which attracted over 100,000 public votes, saw Vaughan Williams’ The Lark Ascending, which held the top position in 2022, come in second again this year. His Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis follows closely in third.

The popularity of film scores has surged, with 39 entries in the top 300. John Williams, the legendary composer behind famous movie scores, topped the list for living composers with seven entries, including his iconic works for Star Wars, Jurassic Park, and Harry Potter. His score for Schindler’s List was placed 10th in the overall rankings.

Welsh composer Sir Karl Jenkins, aged 80, was the most popular living British composer, with four pieces featured, including The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace, which ranked at number four.

Mozart maintained his status as the most popular composer overall, securing 13 entries, followed by Beethoven and Tchaikovsky with 11 each, and Bach with nine.

Dan Walker, presenter of Classic FM Breakfast, reflected on the findings: “The increasing popularity of movie music is one of the biggest changes in the chart’s 28-year history, and Rachmaninov’s enduring masterpiece is a perfect representation of the power of classical music.”

Here is the top 20 of Classic FM’s Hall of Fame 2024:

Rachmaninov – Piano Concerto No.2
Vaughan Williams – The Lark Ascending
Vaughan Williams – Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis
Jenkins – The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace
Elgar – Enigma Variations
Beethoven – Piano Concerto No.5 (‘Emperor’)
Holst – The Planets Suite
Beethoven – Symphony No.9 (‘Choral’)
Shostakovich – Piano Concerto No.2
Williams – Schindler’s List
Allegri – Miserere
Morricone – The Mission (includes Gabriel’s Oboe)
Beethoven – Symphony No.6 (‘Pastoral’)
Mozart – Clarinet Concerto
Mozart – Requiem
Dvorak – Symphony No.9 (‘From the New World’)
Ungar – The Ashokan Farewell
Sibelius – Finlandia
Wiseman – The Glorious Garden
Barber – Adagio for Strings