This Companion provides a comprehensive introduction to the life, music and compositional aesthetic of French composer Maurice Ravel (1875-1937). Leading international scholars offer a powerful reassessment of this most private and elusive musician, examining his work in detail within its cultural context. Supported by many music examples, the volume explores the full range of Ravel's work - piano repertory, chamber works, orchestral music, ballets, songs and operas - and makes illuminating comparisons with the music of Couperin, Gounod, Chabrier and Debussy. The essays present the latest research focusing on topics such as Ravel's exoticism and Spanishness and conclude by analysing the performance and reception of his music, including previously untranslated reviews. Marking the 125th anniversary of Ravel's birth, the Companion as a whole aims to secure a solid foundation for Ravel studies in the twenty-first century and will appeal to all enthusiasts and students of his music.

A comprehensive introduction to the life, music and compositional aesthetic of Maurice Ravel.
Reviews
'... this is a welcome, timely and very carefully edited book. It includes a high proportion of successful essays ...'. Nigel Simeone, The Musical Times



Book Information
ISBN 9780521648561
Author Deborah Mawer
Format Paperback
Page Count 312
Imprint Cambridge University Press
Publisher Cambridge University Press
Weight(grams) 546g
Dimensions(mm) 246mm * 175mm * 19mm