Ravel: Complete Orchestral Works, Vol. 2

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Maurice Ravel with "Ravel: Complete Orchestral Works, Vol. 2," a captivating collection of his orchestral masterpieces set to release on January 31, 2025, under the label L'Auditori. This album, spanning 54 minutes, is a testament to Ravel's unparalleled orchestration skills and his profound ability to evoke vivid imagery and emotion through music.

At the heart of this volume are Ravel's three orchestral song cycles, featuring the exquisite mezzo-soprano Fleur Barron. The album opens with the fanfare-like "Fanfare, M. 80" and includes the delicate "Menuet antique, M. 7" and the evocative "Shéhérazade, M. 41," a set of three songs inspired by the tales of One Thousand and One Nights. Each song, from the exotic "Asie" to the enchanting "La flûte enchantée" and the introspective "L'indifférent," showcases Ravel's lyrical genius and his knack for storytelling.

The album also features the whimsical "Don Quichotte à Dulcinée, M. 84," a set of three songs that bring to life the chivalrous adventures of Don Quixote. Ravel's setting of Stéphane Mallarmé's poetry, "Poèmes de Stéphane Mallarmé, M. 64," is another highlight, with its haunting melodies and intricate harmonies.

The album concludes with the elegant "Valses nobles et sentimentales, M. 61," a suite of eight waltzes that range from the lively to the introspective. Each waltz is a gem, showcasing Ravel's ability to blend nostalgia with innovation.

Conducted by Ludovic Morlot and performed by the Barcelona Symphony Orchestra, this album is a celebration of Ravel's orchestral works, offering a rich and immersive listening experience. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Ravel's music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.