Introducing Maurice Ravel’s Famous and Representative Works
Maurice Ravel, one of the most important figures in Impressionist music.
His works are meticulously crafted down to the finest details, grounded firmly in classical forms while blending in Impressionist expression.
As a result, his music has a uniquely singular character that only he could create.
He also arranged works by other composers for orchestra, and his outstanding orchestration earned him the nicknames “genius of orchestration” and “magician of the orchestra.”
In this article, we introduce Ravel’s masterpieces and signature works.
Even if you’re not familiar with classical music, there are pieces you have probably heard somewhere at least once.
Enjoy the many wonderful masterpieces of Ravel!
Introducing Maurice Ravel’s masterpieces and signature works (1–10)
Sonatine, M. 40: II. Mouvement de MenuetNEW!Maurice Ravel
Maurice Ravel, the French composer hailed as a “genius of orchestration.” The second movement of his masterpiece Sonatine is highly recommended as a piece that enhances concentration while you work.
He began composing it in response to a magazine project in 1903, and the complete work received its premiere in March 1906.
While it adopts the form of a classical minuet, Ravel’s distinctive, sophisticated harmonies shine through.
Favoring quiet beauty over flashy development, this work is also ideal as background music for studying or reading.
Lend an ear to the piano’s restrained yet resolute tone.
SonatinaMaurice Ravel
A solo piano work composed between 1903 and 1905.
Consisting of three movements, this piece was written for a composition competition; though modest in scale, it distills captivating melodies and delicate sonorities.
The first movement is marked by a lyrical melody.
The second features graceful, charming lines and includes a section that Ravel himself described as “a bow after the dance.” The third movement brims with lively passages.
While adhering to classical forms, it shines with Ravel’s characteristic finesse, making it a masterpiece.
Piano Concerto in G majorMaurice Ravel
Completed in 1931, this work is known as one of his late masterpieces.
It strongly reflects his encounters with jazz during a concert tour in America and the influence of Basque folk music from his mother’s homeland.
Structured in three movements, the first has a bright, playful character; the second is a lyrical sarabande-like movement; and the third unfolds with the bustling energy reminiscent of a circus or parade—resulting in a richly varied and captivating musical trajectory.
While evoking a return to Ravel’s musical roots, it also expands upon his unique sound world.
Ravel wrote only two piano concertos; this is one of them.
Be sure to give it a listen.
La ValseMaurice Ravel
A ballet piece composed between 1919 and 1920.
The title means “waltz” in French.
It features phrases that evoke the Viennese waltz.
When Ravel had Diaghilev—who was enjoying great success in Paris—listen to the work, Diaghilev reportedly said, “It’s a masterpiece, but unsuitable for ballet.
It’s merely a ballet painting,” and declined to accept it.
There is a somewhat ominous atmosphere, and it ends in an explosive finale.
Pavane for a Dead PrincessMaurice Ravel
A graceful masterpiece by the French composer Maurice Ravel.
Born in 1899 as a piano piece and later orchestrated, it captivates listeners with its quiet beauty.
It has been used in TV commercials and as insert music in films, and is still loved by a wide audience today.
The delicate melodies woven into its roughly seven-minute duration evoke the elegance of an old courtly dance.
With Ravel’s signature refined tone colors and restrained expression, it is an appealing piece that allows even first-time listeners to comfortably immerse themselves in its world.
Recommended for those who want to become familiar with classical music or are seeking graceful music.
Play of WaterMaurice Ravel
A piano piece by the French composer Maurice Ravel that expresses the movement of water through music.
Composed in 1901 while he was studying at the Paris Conservatory, the work brilliantly depicts droplets falling onto the water’s surface and the flow of water through the piano’s timbres.
Its charm lies in a fantastical world evoked by a succession of light arpeggios that reveal water’s many expressions.
Although it was initially criticized for its abundance of dissonance, it is now beloved as a masterpiece that captivates many piano enthusiasts.
Ma mère l’OyeMaurice Ravel
A suite composed by Ravel in 1908.
It consists of five movements based on fairy tales and was created as music for children.
Characterized by graceful, dreamlike sonorities, it showcases Ravel’s delicate musicality to the fullest.
First presented for piano four hands, it was later orchestrated in 1911, adding richer coloristic expression.
Each movement deftly depicts scenes from various stories in music, such as Sleeping Beauty and the Queen of the Pagodas.
Recommended for those who want to enjoy a captivating work that invites you into the world of fairy tales.