Ravel: Valses nobles et sentimentales, Le tombeau de Couperin, Miroirs & Concertos

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Maurice Ravel with this comprehensive collection of his piano masterpieces and orchestral works. Released on April 1, 2022, by Warner Classics, this album spans over two hours and features 31 captivating tracks that showcase Ravel's unparalleled genius and innovation.

The album opens with Ravel's "Valses nobles et sentimentales," a suite of waltzes composed in 1911 and orchestrated the following year for the ballet "Adélaïde, ou le langage des fleurs." These waltzes, inspired by Franz Schubert's earlier compositions, are a testament to Ravel's intricate rhythmic and harmonic sophistication. The suite is performed with exquisite delicacy by Cécile Ousset, capturing the essence of Ravel's unique style.

The album also includes Ravel's "Le Tombeau de Couperin," a suite of six movements originally written for solo piano and later orchestrated. This work, dedicated to friends of Ravel who perished during World War I, is a poignant reflection on loss and remembrance. The suite is performed with profound sensitivity, highlighting the depth and complexity of Ravel's compositions.

"Miroirs," another highlight of the album, is a suite of five piano pieces that showcase Ravel's elaborate pictorialism. Each movement is a vivid musical portrait, from the ethereal "Noctuelles" to the dramatic "Alborada del gracioso." The performances are breathtaking, bringing to life the vivid imagery and technical brilliance of Ravel's writing.

The album also features Ravel's piano concertos, including the iconic "Piano Concerto in G Major" and the "Piano Concerto for the Left Hand in D Major." These works, performed with virtuosity and precision, demonstrate Ravel's mastery of orchestration and his ability to blend classical forms with modern innovations.

Other notable works include "Jeux d'eau," a sparkling piano piece that evokes the sound of water, and "Pavane pour une infante défunte," a hauntingly beautiful elegy for a deceased princess. Each piece is performed with meticulous attention to detail, capturing the unique character and charm of Ravel's compositions.

Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Ravel's music, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The performances are top-notch, the sound quality is exceptional, and the selection of works is both comprehensive and thoughtfully curated. Dive into the world of Maurice Ravel and discover the timeless beauty of his music.