He doesn’t write music, he paints with sounds*

Maurice Ravel (1875-1937) is one of the most important composers of the 20th century. His works are notably characterized by their innovative harmonies, exceptional rhythms, and masterful orchestration. Unusual instrument combinations often lend his music a unique character. His compositions reveal influences from various artistic trends of the first half of the 20th century, such as Impressionism, Neoclassicism, and Exoticism. Overall, his music, offering a fascinating mixture of tradition and innovation, is still integral to concert halls around the world today.

Maurice Ravel’s music has been part of Breitkopf & Härtel’s orchestra library since 2008. The publishing house is fortunate to have Jean-François Monnard, renowned conductor and musicologist, as editor of the French composer’s most important works. In addition to an up-to-date, scholarly music text, Monnard’s critical Ravel editions include an informative preface and a critical commentary that exposes Ravel’s instrument retouching, illuminates his sophisticated sound-layering, and documents his conception of tempo.

For the 2025 Ravel anniversary year, the orchestral and stage works already published by Breitkopf & Härtel will be supplemented by the performance material for the Piano Concerto No. 1 in G major (in collaboration with G. Henle Verlag).

*Igor Stravinsky in a 1928 interview about Maurice Ravel.