Composer

:

Maurice Ravel

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1895 - 1897

Average_duration

:

5:41

Movement_count

:

2

Movement ....

'Sites auriculaires' is a composition for solo piano by the French composer Maurice Ravel. It was composed in 1895, when Ravel was just 20 years old, and premiered the following year in Paris. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character and style. The first movement, marked "Assez vif", is a lively and playful scherzo. It begins with a rapid, syncopated figure in the right hand, which is soon joined by a jaunty melody in the left. The two hands engage in a lively dialogue, with the melody passing back and forth between them. The middle section of the movement is more lyrical, with a flowing melody in the right hand accompanied by gentle arpeggios in the left. The opening material returns, and the movement ends with a flourish. The second movement, marked "Très lent", is a slow and introspective nocturne. It begins with a haunting melody in the right hand, accompanied by a simple, repetitive figure in the left. The melody is gradually developed and expanded, with the left hand providing a rich harmonic backdrop. The middle section of the movement is more agitated, with a series of rapid arpeggios in the right hand and a more complex harmonic texture. The opening material returns, and the movement ends with a quiet, introspective coda. The final movement, marked "Vif", is a lively and virtuosic toccata. It begins with a rapid, cascading figure in the right hand, which is soon joined by a driving rhythm in the left. The two hands engage in a frenzied dialogue, with the right hand racing up and down the keyboard while the left provides a steady pulse. The middle section of the movement is more lyrical, with a flowing melody in the right hand accompanied by gentle arpeggios in the left. The opening material returns, and the movement ends with a dazzling display of virtuosity. Overall, 'Sites auriculaires' is a youthful and exuberant work, full of energy and invention. It showcases Ravel's mastery of the piano, as well as his ability to create a wide range of moods and textures. Despite its relative obscurity, it remains a fascinating and rewarding piece for both performers and listeners.

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