Publications

Writing in 1908 and inspired by two children of ages 6 and 7, Maurice Ravel created a wonderful four-hand work for piano called “Pavane de la belle au bois dormant” or “Pavane of the Beauty Sleeping in the Woods.” This pavane was inspired by the telling of the Sleeping Beauty story by the 17th century writer Charles Perrault. Within two years, this work would become the first movement of Ravel’s famous “Mother Goose,” composed first for piano four-hands, then orchestrated, and finally expanded into a ballet.

From a purely technical point of view, this is a work that can be played by early-intermediate-to-late-intermediate level pianists. While less advanced players can perform it expressively but without sustain pedal, more advanced pianists will find opportunity for subtle nuances and shades of color. Indeed, the work can be enjoyed by concert artists as well as youngsters.

This interactive urtext edition comes with historical and performance commentary by George F. Litterst and includes a MIDI performance of both parts by Paul Sheftel.

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