Maurice Ravel

(Paperback)

---

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

Maurice Ravel is one of the twentieth century's most intriguing and contradictory composers. This timely new biography published for the 150th anniversary of his birth describes Ravel's journey from Parisian apprentice to global musical icon. Drawing on fresh research, Emily Kilpatrick reveals Ravel as both a daring provocateur and a reflective elder, his lifelong quest for originality driven by his deep love of history and literature. Set against a background of profound cultural and political upheaval, Ravel's story unfolds through his battles with the artistic establishment, his creative resilience after wartime losses and the tragic incapacitation of his final years. The result is an intimate portrait of a composer whose music continues to enchant and challenge audiences worldwide.

Reviews

A concise and very well-written short biography drawing on the best existing sources, while also providing a fresh perspective on Ravels life and works . . . an ideal introduction to the man and his music. * Nigel Simeone, author of Olivier Messiaen: Music, Art and Literature *

In her engaging biography of this beloved, quintessential French composer, Emily Kilpatrick explains that language, literature and historical conversation underpin the thread of her narrative, for it is here that we find the most revealing intersections of practice and aesthetic and perhaps, too, the most sustainable accommodations of self and art. In addition to the excellent, well-researched writing, there are 37 plates containing interesting photographs as well as reproductions of Ravel manuscripts. This impressive achievement is highly recommended.

* Arbie Orenstein, American musicologist, pianist and author of Ravel: Man and Musician *
An insightful biography of the complex, ever-enigmatic Ravel, which places his life, music and aesthetic in their cultural context. Generous illustrations, including letters and manuscripts, enrich the telling of Ravels story. The research is up-to-date, and the writing is scholarly yet accessible. * Deborah Mawer, Emeritus Professor of Music, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, UK *

Author Bio

Emily Kilpatrick is an Associate Professor at the Royal Academy of Music, London. Her books include French Art Song: History of a New Music, 18701914 (2022).