Distinctive Style in Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G Major

Journal: Arts Studies and Criticism DOI: 10.32629/asc.v5i6.3264

Ke An

The University of Utah School of Music, Utah, 84070, USA

Abstract

Ravel, a French impressionist composer, writing a plenty of successful music pieces. The orchestration and piano compositions are the crucial milestones in the history of music. His Piano Concerto in G major is a great example. Ravel broke the convention of composition which was popular and taught in the conservatory, especially the strict rules in the classical music. This study examines Maurice Ravel's innovative compositional techniques in his Piano Concerto in G Major, focusing on the integration of jazz and Spanish music elements, polytonality, and unique pianistic devices. Through a detailed analysis of the concerto's first movement, this paper reveals how Ravel broke with classical conventions to create a fusion of piano and orchestration that showcases his pioneering spirit. These innovations demonstrate Ravel’s contributions to modern composition and his distinctive style that blends diverse influences.

Keywords

piano concerto, Maurice Ravel, Spanish music, orchestration.

References

[1] Martin, C. (2018). Concerto for Piano and Orchestra.
[2] Rogers, J. C. (2014). Grieving Through Music in Interwar France: Maurice Ravel and His Circle, 1914-1934.
[3] Adè, T. (2018). Concerto for piano and orchestra: (2018) (Score). Faber Music.
[4] Jozaki, A. (2000). Maurice Ravel's Two Piano Concertos: A Study of Sociology, Analysis and Performance Practice.
[5] Wang, Z. (2017). Polytonality and Polymodality in Ravel's Music. Doctoral dissertation, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.

Copyright © 2025 Ke An

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