Neon Genesis Evangelion is a masterpiece of animation, but it’s also a musical journey. Shiro Sagisu’s soundtrack captures the tension, and tragedy and emotion of the characters and their world. If you are looking to bring these iconic pieces to your keys, here are my top 5 picks for the best Evangelion songs to play on the piano (in no particular order).
1. A Cruel Angel’s Thesis (Free Piano Sheet for Download)
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As the opening theme for the TV series, “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis” is arguably the most recognizable anime song ever. On the piano, this piece is so much fun to play because of the driving rhythm and constant energy. For me, the most beautiful part of the piece is the transition in the middle. There’s a holy feel to this part that just feels so “Evangelion”.
I transcribed this piece into piano sheet music. If you’re interested, feel free to download here: [A Cruel Angel’s Thesis – Download Free Piano Sheet Music | PDF]
2. Komm, süsser Tod (Come, Sweet Death)
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This song plays during the climax of The End of Evangelion, right as humanity is turning into LCL (or… sea of orange juice). The lyrics “I’ll never love again, my world is ending” fit the scene so perfectly.
What I really love is how the song gradually layers the instruments. It starts out with just piano and tambourine, but then it adds in drum set, bass and electric sounds, and eventually, the female vocals and chorus.
The piece actually sounds like the 70s pop “Hey Jude” by the Beatles in its beat, melody, vocal and also the mood – Though I’d say Komm, süsser Tod feels more desperate.
3. EVA-01
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The track feels grand, heroic, and at the same time, fantasy-like. It plays when EVA-01 is being prepped for launch, and it perfectly captures that sense of scale.
I love the key change starting at 1:00 where the track adds in a dreamlike layer to the grand vibe. It feels like flying over a castle through the clouds.
The track is so difficult to transcribe for piano because of its orchestra style. it’s not easy to play either. You’re basically trying to mimic a brass section and string section with only two hands. The most challenging parts are the quick violin and harp lines. It’s definitely a workout, but it’s worth it to get the “big” symphonic sound on a single instrument.
4. Next Episode (Free Piano Sheet)
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This is the famous 30-second music that plays at the end of every episode. The track is brighter and more upbeat than many other Evangelion tracks. I love how the melody just keeps climbing higher and higher, building up tension until it finally drops back down at the very end.
It’s a short piece, but it’s a total crowd-pleaser because every Evangelion fan recognizes the melody immediately.
I transcribed this piece into piano sheet music. If you’re interested, feel free to download the free PDF here: [Neon Genesis Evangelion Free Piano Sheet Music – Next Episode]
5. Substitute Invasion
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This track plays during the “adult kiss” scene right before Misato dies, where she’s desperately trying to hand over all her hope to a kid who has completely burned out. The track fits the scene well, but for me, the track goes way beyond that one moment. It is so beautiful (especially starting at 2:00) that I feel it deserves a much more impressive scene rather than just an “adult kiss”.
Conclusion
Above are my top 5 picks for the best Evangelion songs to play on the piano. They are truly timeless. Other tracks like Rei I, Asuka Strikes and Decisive Battle are definitely also great to play on keys. Which one is your favorite to play?