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Maurice Ravel

Posted: Tuesday | 04.12.11

Ravel: Boléro, and more

French composer Maurice Ravel was a magnificent orchestrator. He was the one who composed the orchestral version of Pictures at an Exhibition by Mussorgsky, which was originally scored for piano solo.

This CD gives us some terrific examples of Ravel’s mastery. La Valse begins with the faint sounds of waltz music, as though it is lost in the clouds. Later the clouds lift, and we ultimately hear the full swing of a Viennese ball in progress.

Ravel gives us music with a Spanish flair, as well. His Rapsodie Espagnole is filled with Spanish tunes and rhythms.

Pavane for a Dead Princess is a sad piece; it is a good way to provide variety in this collection

Music on this CD is as follows:

Ravel:

• Boléro

• Alborada del gracioso (orchestral version)

• La Valse

• Rapsodie Espagnole

• Pavane pour une infante défunte

Performed by L’Orchestre National de France, Lorin Maazel

Here is the RIOULT Dance Company’s “Wien” (Vienna) set to Maurice Ravel’s score of La Valse

Tags: Maurice Ravel, Bolero, La Valse, Lorin Maazel