Considered among the most original and influential composers of
the 20th century, Maurice Ravel played a decisive role in the history of
modern French music — a role that continues to be examined by students
exploring the roots of musical style in our time. An internationally
recognized authority on the life and works of Ravel, editor Arbie
Orenstein captures the essence of this enigmatic man through his own
words, both written and spoken. This outstanding compilation of articles
by Ravel (who was a brilliant critic) features reviews, interviews, and
some 350 letters — most of which are published here for the first time
in English — from Cocteau, Colette, de Falla, Richard Strauss,
Stravinsky, and other major figures of the era.