Introducing Maurice Ravel’s Famous and Representative Works

Children and MagicMaurice Ravel

“L’ Enfant et les Sortilèges” Version Opera de Liege 2013

A one-act opera completed in 1924.

Incorporating ballet as well, it is a fantastical work that Ravel himself called a “lyric fantasy.” In 1914, when Jacques Rouché became director of the Paris Opera, he planned a fairy-tale ballet.

After the writer Colette finished the libretto, Rouché and Colette discussed whom to commission for the music; Rouché suggested Ravel, and Colette enthusiastically agreed, and so it was decided.

Sonatina Op. 40, 1st movementMaurice Ravel

Ravel / Sonatine, I. Moderato / pf. Takaya Sano

Among Maurice Ravel’s works, many reveal his attraction to Baroque and Classical-era music, and this “Sonatine” is one piece that clearly reflects his devotion to classical style.

The first movement adheres to the sonatina form while showcasing Ravel’s characteristically pictorial, beautiful melodies.

Anyone who has practiced pieces from a Sonatina Album will likely sense moments where “this sonority would never appear in a Classical work.” Achieving a delicate touch is no easy task, but performing with an awareness of stylistic differences across periods will deepen your interest in Ravel’s music.

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From the suite “Ma mère l’Oye,” No. 3: “Laideronnette, Empress of the Pagodas”Maurice Ravel

From 'Ma mère l’Oye' III. Laideronnette, Empress of the Pagodas — Ravel (piano four hands)

This is a masterpiece that unfolds a fairytale world imbued with an Oriental atmosphere.

It vividly portrays, through the unique four-hand resonance of piano duet, the tale of a beautiful princess cursed and transformed.

The piece is one of the five movements in a piano duet suite composed by Maurice Ravel between 1908 and 1910 for the children of his friends.

In this work, the sounds of Chinese instruments—such as xylophone and percussion—are brilliantly evoked using two pianos.

Amid its light and bright character, the timbre brims with exotic color, as if the distant toll of a gong were resounding.

Demanding rich expression across the piano’s high and low registers and close ensemble coordination, it is an ideal work for concerts and recitals.

From the suite ‘Ma mère l’Oye’: No. 4, ‘Dialogue of Beauty and the Beast’Maurice Ravel

From the suite 'Ma mère l'Oye': IV. Conversation of Beauty and the Beast / M. Ravel (piano four hands)

A piano duet inspired by the fairy tale “Beauty and the Beast,” this masterpiece weaves delicate beauty with grand drama.

The interplay between clarinet depicting Beauty and contrabassoon portraying the Beast is striking, creating a vivid sense of witnessing a conversation between the two.

Premiered in Paris in April 1910, it has also been used in ballet and visual media for its graceful melodies and rich narrative quality.

While it demands advanced technique and expressive nuance from the performers, its fairy-tale foundation lends it an approachable charm, making it a sparkling gem that stands out in concerts and recitals.

Highly recommended for those who want to savor the lush resonance of two pianos and the exhilarating tension of breathing in unison with a partner.

The Fairy Garden, No. 5 from the suite “Ma mère l’Oye”Maurice Ravel

M. Ravel – 5. Le jardin féerique – Ma Mère l’Oye

The world of timbres woven by four hands shines even more beautifully in Maurice Ravel’s works for piano four hands.

Premiered in Paris in April 1910, this fairy-tale-themed suite was written for children yet conceals profound musicality.

Its graceful triple-meter waltz unfolds a fantastical atmosphere, captivating listeners with the rich sonority and expressive power unique to piano duet.

Amid the majestic and beautiful melodies, passages evoke the delicate colors of harp and celesta, offering the sensation of being led into a dreamlike realm.

While synchronizing breath and timing with a duet partner can be challenging, the joy of achieving a unified performance is unparalleled.

This is a highly recommended piece for those who wish to fully savor the essence of piano four-hand playing.

Toccata from Le Tombeau de CouperinMaurice Ravel

Ravel: Le Tombeau de Couperin 'Toccata' [27_ Classical piano piece with intense, fast score and commentary]

This piece, which serves as the finale of a six-movement suite composed in memory of friends who died in World War I, is distinguished by its fast tempo and virtuosic passages—a gem that adds a modern interpretation to a form developed since the Baroque era.

Premiered at the Salle Gaveau in Paris in April 1919, it has continued to captivate performers and audiences alike ever since.

In addition to its brilliant and powerful sonorities, it masterfully fuses Maurice Ravel’s distinctive harmonies and rhythmic sense, overwhelming listeners with its intensity.

Although it demands advanced technical skill, it is a superb work that can enthrall a live audience, making it a perfect choice for those who wish to perform at a piano recital.

Two Hebrew SongsMaurice Ravel

Jessye Norman: The complete “Deux mélodies hébraïques” (Ravel)

A song cycle composed in 1914 for voice with piano accompaniment.

An orchestral version was also released in 1919.

It consists of Kaddish and The Eternal Enigma.

The lyrics of Kaddish are from an Aramaic liturgical text.

The lyrics of The Eternal Enigma are taken from Jewish folk songs.