Review Summary: inexplicably real
Maurice Ravel, who was frequently compared to his elder contemporary Claude Debussy, differed from him in function, form, and soul, and reflected his idiosyncrasies in his work. Impeccably styled, conscientious and cautious, Ravel never revealed inadequacies, personally or musically. For this reason, his pieces are meticulous - unrushed and well thought-out, mimicking as opposed to imitating. "Pavane pour une Infante Defunte (Pavane for a Dead Princess)" is inexplicably real, carefully capturing and honoring 1900s Spain.
First composed in 1899, “Pavane pour une infante defunte (Pavane for a Dead Princess)" reflects on loss, mourning older, and slowly disappearing Spanish sensibilities that transformed in light of Spain's new direction leading to World War I. The grief embedded in "Pavane" resounds clearly, as it commences with deep-seated longing for past glory. Although caught up in this feeling, it progresses with faith, only to be halted - shattering any built-up faith - when it acknowledges reality. The next part of "Pavane" begins with sad recognition, eventually altering again into revelry for the old, but subdues, finally
truly accepting reality in the end.
This brief composition is everything relating to loss - childhood, your very much missed best friend, perhaps that ex-lover you want back, or will always remember at least. Most importantly, however, "Pavane pour une Infante Defunte" is rather beautiful, as well as very touching, and you should definitely listen to it.
Orchestra: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B45q0caSS0Y
Piano: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tn6_yT9SKpM
