Ravel's orchestration of Mussorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition makes extensive use of a large orchestra, including an alto saxophone to represent the minstrel in 'The Old Castle'.
Composition History
Ravel's orchestrations of Debussy's Sarabande and Danse were commissioned by publisher Jean Jobert after Debussy's death.
Composer Biography
Maurice Ravel, the composer featured on this album, was born in the small coastal village of Ciboure in the Basque region of France.
Composition History
Ravel's orchestration of Chabrier's Menuet pompeux was commissioned by the Russian ballet impresario Sergei Diaghilev for a ballet that premiered in London in 1919.
Composer Biography
Ravel's repeated failure to win the prestigious Prix de Rome, even as an established composer, led to a scandal that resulted in changes at the Conservatoire.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Ravel's exceptional skill in orchestration was evident early in his career, characterized by his speed, precision, and command of orchestral color.
Performer Biography
Leonard Slatkin, the conductor of this album, has received seven GRAMMY Awards and 64 GRAMMY Award nominations for his more than 100 recordings.
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