Ravel: L'Enfant et les Sortilèges; Shéhérazade

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Maurice Ravel with this captivating album, featuring two of his most beloved works: "L'Enfant et les Sortilèges" and "Shéhérazade." This recording, released in 2015 under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label, offers a unique blend of classical, classical piano, and neoclassical genres, spanning a total duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes.

"L'Enfant et les Sortilèges," a fantastical opera in one act, is a collaboration between Ravel and the renowned French novelist Colette. Composed between 1919 and 1925, this whimsical piece is a series of contrasting scenes that are by turns magical, nostalgic, humorous, and even demonic. The libretto, initially titled "Ballet pour ma fille," tells the story of a mischievous child who, after breaking his toys and tormenting his pets, finds himself in a world where inanimate objects come to life and confront him. The music, with its rich orchestration and inventive use of instruments, perfectly complements Colette's evocative text.

"Shéhérazade," on the other hand, is a song cycle for mezzo-soprano and orchestra, inspired by the tales of "One Thousand and One Nights." Composed in 1898, this early work showcases Ravel's distinctive style, with its lush harmonies and evocative orchestration. The three songs that make up the cycle—"Asie," "La flûte enchantée," and "L'indifférente"—are a testament to Ravel's ability to create vivid musical landscapes that transport the listener to distant lands.

Conducted by the legendary Seiji Ozawa, this album features the Saito Kinen Orchestra, known for their exceptional musicianship and commitment to the highest standards of performance. The recording captures the essence of Ravel's unique musical language, with its delicate balance of lyricism and virtuosity, and its ability to evoke a wide range of moods and atmospheres.

Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to delight and inspire. With its stunning performances and exquisite sound quality, it's a testament to the enduring power of Ravel's music and its ability to captivate audiences across generations.