Maurice Ravel Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Genteel and Sentimental Waltz: No. 6, Vif (Lively)Maurice Ravel85rank/position

Valses nobles et sentimentales (version for piano) : VI. Vif

It’s a piece from a suite composed by Maurice Ravel in the manner of Schubert’s waltzes.

Like a kaleidoscope that constantly shifts its expression, it brims with a lively, slightly mischievous character.

At its premiere in May 1911, the composer’s name was withheld, and its novelty was such that many in the audience could not guess the author.

The work was later used as music for the ballet Adélaïde ou le langage des fleurs.

It feels as though it depicts a somewhat thrilling and humorous ballroom scene.

The key is to bring out the rhythmic intrigue by consciously contrasting light staccato with smooth legato.

Though short, it is rewarding to play and perfect for those who want to broaden their expressive range.

「Bolero」Maurice RavelMaurice Ravel/NHK kōkyōgakudan Rorin Mazēru shiki86rank/position

Ravel Bolero

Among Japanese symphony orchestras, the NHK Symphony Orchestra (N-Kyō) has an especially large fan base.

Known for a uniquely clear, crystal-like tone that reflects its Japanese roots, it also enjoys a strong following overseas, making it truly one of the country’s top ensembles.

Their performance of Ravel’s Boléro is conducted by Lorin Maazel, a maestro with a huge international following across major orchestral recordings.

The result is a piece that is highly refined yet, in the middle sections, features some of Maazel’s signature, brisk driving—an elegant yet playfully surprising rendition.

「Bolero」Maurice RavelMaurice Ravel/Denmāku Kokuritsu Hōsō Kōkyōgakudan Seruju Cheribidakke shiki87rank/position

Ravel – Bolero. Sergiu Celibidache 1971

Beginning with the regular melody of this Boléro, he was a composer who paid extraordinary attention to detail, was highly rational, and yet possessed remarkable expressive power—traits that have led to him being called an “exemplary composer.” He has also been dubbed a “genius of orchestration” and a “magician of the orchestra,” and Igor Stravinsky, the contemporary Russian composer known for The Rite of Spring and The Firebird, referred to him as a “Swiss watchmaker.” This is a slightly older performance from 1971.

「Bolero」Maurice RavelMaurice Ravel/Fransu Kokkuri Kagengakudan Rorin Mazeeru shiki88rank/position

Ravel: Boléro (Orchestre National de France)

Maurice Ravel’s ballet music Boléro by the French composer.

While an unchanging triple-meter rhythm is maintained throughout, two types of melodies are repeated and layered as the instrumentation changes, creating a distinctive sound structure reminiscent of ocean waves.

Premiered in 1928, it remains widely loved not only by ballet enthusiasts but as a classic masterpiece.

Boléro can differ greatly depending on the performer.

First, we will introduce Ravel’s Boléro in various interpretations by different performers, followed by related works.

Here is a performance by the Orchestre National de France under the baton of Lorin Maazel—renowned for his delicate yet dynamic conducting that evokes vast landscapes—recorded in September 1981.

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「Bolero」Maurice RavelMaurice Ravel/Furansu Kokuritsu Kangen Gakudan (Furasshu Mobu @ Eki)89rank/position

[flash mob] Bolero , the world’s best flash mob

Here’s another rendition of Maurice Ravel’s Boléro.

At first glance, they might look like a bunch of amateurs who just showed up with their instruments, but look closer and you’ll see unbelievably exceptional performance skills.

In fact, this is a flash-mob performance by members of the Orchestre National de France.

Don’t miss this astonishing street performance, which has been filmed and shared countless times around the world! “Well, if the Orchestre National de France suddenly started playing in the street… of course everyone would be shocked!”

「Bolero」Maurice RavelMaurice Ravel/berurin firuhāmonī kangengakudan heruberuto fon karayan shiki90rank/position

Ravel – Boléro, Karajan, Berlin Philharmonic, 1985

The exhilaration that Boléro brings to its audience is known to be exceptionally high—especially compared to other works—thanks to its regular repetition of phrases, its steady rhythmic recurrence, and the finely crafted design of the overall sound.

This is powerfully and dynamically performed by the Berlin Philharmonic under Herbert von Karajan in the New Year’s Eve Concert 1985.

Please enjoy this performance from the very heartland of classical music: December 31, 1985, at the Berlin Philharmonie.

“Boléro” Maurice Ravel (conducted by the composer)Maurice Ravel/Ramurū kangen gakudan91rank/position

Ravel: Boléro Conducted by Ravel (1930) – Ravel Boléro self-conducted

We present a masterpiece that has enjoyed explosive popularity since its premiere.

It is characterized by a unique structure in which a single melody, set to a steady rhythm, is repeated while gradually increasing in volume.

The persistent repetition of the snare drum and the interplay of the melody among various instruments captivate listeners.

Composed in 1928 as ballet music, this piece captured many hearts with its masterful crescendo and innovative orchestration.

It is recommended not only for music enthusiasts but also for those drawn to rhythmic repetition.

A valuable recording conducted by the composer himself on January 8, 1930, still survives, allowing us to hear that historic performance today.