PlayPiano
The short answer
Ravel writing in another composer’s manner. À la manière de Borodine is a waltz by Maurice Ravel. PlayPiano puts it at Level 6, an estimate.
- waltz
- dancing
Also known as À la manière de Borodine (M.Ravel M.63).
History
Ravel composed this piano work in 1912 as part of a pair written in the manner of Borodine and Chabrier. The Borodine piece is a waltz. The name points to the style Ravel was exploring, not to Borodine as the author of the music: this is Ravel's own composition.
Sources
What to listen for
Changing colour over a steady foundation
Hear chromatic harmony above repeating bass tones within the waltz. These pedal tones describe pitch, not pedal technique.
How to practise it
Keep the paired upper line connected through its tie.
- Coordinate upper pairs.
- Preserve the tie.
- Keep the lower support unobtrusive.
How hard is it
Waltz-like lyricism requires differentiated melody and accompaniment, refined harmonic balance and flexible phrasing without losing underlying dance motion.
About this piece
- Collection
- At the dance floor
- Licence
- CC0
- Source
- musescore.com
More by Maurice Ravel
- Prélude (1913)Level 5, estimatedWith Maestro
- Pavane pour une infante défunte, M. 19Level 7, estimatedWith Maestro
- Jeux d’eau, M. 30Level 9, estimatedWith Maestro
