Product Description
Maurice Ravel's Boléro is a one-movement orchestral piece composed in 1928, commissioned by Russian dancer Ida Rubinstein. It is one of Ravel's most famous works and among his last completed compositions before illness affected his ability to write music.
Background and Composition
Initially, Rubinstein requested an orchestral transcription of Isaac Albénizs Iberia. However, due to copyright restrictions, Ravel composed a new piece inspired by the Spanish dance form, the bolero. Ravel conceived the work as an experiment in repetition and orchestration. He described it as "a piece consisting wholly of orchestral tissue without music". The composition was completed in just five months. The main theme developed from a melody Ravel played with one finger on the piano.
Structure and Musical Features
Boléro is set in C major and 3/4 time. It begins pianissimo with a steady snare-drum ostinato rhythm repeated 169 times throughout the piece. Two alternating melodies, each 18 bars long, are introduced. The first is diatonic, while the second incorporates jazz-like syncopation and flattened notes. The orchestration gradually intensifies through reorchestration and crescendo, culminating in a dramatic climax. The tempo is marked as Tempo di Bolero, moderato assai. Performances typically last around 15 minutes, though durations vary depending on the interpretation.
Premiere and Reception
The premiere occurred on November 22, 1928, at the Paris Opéra. It was met with acclaim but also controversy; one audience member reportedly screamed "The madman!"a reaction Ravel found amusing, considering it an apt understanding of the piece. Despite Ravel considering Boléro a minor work, it became immensely popular worldwide and remains a staple in concert repertoire.
Legacy
Boléro is celebrated for its hypnotic rhythm, innovative orchestration, and ability to build tension through minimalistic techniques. Its simplicity belies its profound impact on audiences and musicians alike.
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