Ravel's Habanera, originally composed for two pianos in 1895, became the third movement of his first major orchestral work. This sensual Cuban dance showcases his signature orchestral colors, shifting between F♯ major and minor, reflecting Spanish influences through a French impressionist lens. The version here follows a 1980 French National Orchestra interpretation.
Rapsodie espagnole showcases Ravel's genius in evoking Spanish atmosphere through impressionistic orchestration. Though born in France, Ravel had Basque roots and drew inspiration from Iberian folk traditions. The Malagueña movement brilliantly translates flamenco guitar idioms into shimmering woodwind passages and castanet rhythms, creating a vibrant musical postcard from Andalusia.
