Ravel

Synopsis

This new biography of Maurice Ravel (1875–1937), by one of the leading scholars of nineteenth- and twentieth-century French music, is based on a wealth of written and oral evidence, some newly translated and some derived from interviews with the composer's friends and associates. As well as describing the circumstances in which Ravel composed, the book explores new evidence to present radical views of the composer's background and upbringing, his notorious failure in the Prix de Rome, his incisive and often combative character, his sexual preferences, and his long final illness. It also contains the most detailed account so far published of his hugely successful American tour of 1928. The world of Maurice Ravel—including friendships (and some fallings-out) with Debussy, Fauré, Diaghilev, Gershwin, and Toscanini—is deftly uncovered in this sensitive portrait.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Early Years

* Ravel's childhood in Ciboure, France, and his early musical influences.
* His studies at the Paris Conservatoire and the development of his unique musical style.

Example: Ravel's early composition "Pavane pour une infante défunte" (1899) demonstrates his mastery of orchestration and evocative harmonies, evoking the image of a stately pavane danced by a deceased princess.

Chapter 2: The Impressionist Era

* Ravel's association with the Impressionist movement and his exploration of atmospheric and evocative soundscapes.
* His collaborations with Stéphane Mallarmé and other Symbolist poets.

Example: "Jeux d'eau" (1901) is a shimmering, aquatic composition that captures the play of water and light in a fountain.

Chapter 3: The Spanish Influence

* Ravel's fascination with Spanish music and his incorporation of its rhythms and harmonies into his work.
* His travels to Spain and the composition of works such as "Boléro" and "Rapsodie espagnole."

Example: "Boléro" (1928) is a hypnotic and mesmerizing piece that showcases Ravel's mastery of rhythm and repetition, gradually building to a powerful climax.

Chapter 4: The Neoclassical Period

* Ravel's shift towards a more classical style after World War I.
* His exploration of Baroque and Classical forms, combined with his own unique harmonic language.

Example: "Concerto for the Left Hand" (1931) is a virtuosic work that combines the elegance of Mozart with the modernity of Ravel's own style.

Chapter 5: The Later Years

* Ravel's declining health and his struggle with aphasia.
* The completion of his final masterpiece, "Concerto for Piano and Orchestra in G Major" (1931).

Example: "Concerto for Piano and Orchestra" is a serene and reflective work, showcasing Ravel's mastery of texture and his ability to evoke a sense of peace and tranquility.