Ravel: Bolero/Saint-Saens: Danse Macabre/Dukas: L'apprenti Sorcier/Debussy: Prelude A L'apres-Midi D'un Faune

Dive into the enchanting world of classical music with Maurice Ravel's captivating album, a masterful blend of timeless compositions that showcase the brilliance of the genre. Released in 2000 under the Maestoso label, this 43-minute collection features four iconic pieces that have stood the test of time.

The album opens with Ravel's own "Bolero," a piece renowned for its hypnotic rhythm and gradual crescendo, showcasing the composer's innovative approach to orchestration. Following this is Claude Debussy's "Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune," a work that revolutionized the way harmony and orchestration were perceived in classical music.

Paul Dukas' "L'Apprenti Sorcier" (The Sorcerer's Apprentice) is another highlight, a symphonic scherzo based on Goethe's poem that has become one of Dukas' most famous works. The album concludes with Camille Saint-Saëns' "Danse Macabre, Op. 40," a spooky and dramatic piece that uses an unusual instrument, the xylophone, to imitate the sound of rattling bones.

This album is a celebration of classical music's rich history and enduring appeal, featuring works that have inspired generations of composers and musicians. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this collection offers a rewarding listening experience that highlights the genius of Maurice Ravel and his contemporaries.