Ravel: Piano Works

Playing pieces from “Miroirs” and “Gaspard de la nuit,” empathetic pianist Ragna Schirmer reveals the essence of Ravel’s artistic compositions with delicate brilliance. These musical works are animated by an incomparable union of mechanical precision and aching fantasy. In such moments it becomes clear that these mournfully beautiful sound creations are the essence of the artistic soul whose fibers Maurice Ravel wove into his compositions so assuredly. Ragna Schirmer’s exquisite interpretations bear witness to Ravel’s passionate sensibilities and that which could not be said, something he himself concealed from those around him during his lifetime. This virtuoso recording is also a bold interpretation that demands the attention of the listener. With her distinctive interpretations, Ragna Schirmer enjoys an exceptional reputation far beyond the borders of Germany. She has won the highly regarded International Bach Competition in Leipzig twice- a unique achievement in the history of the prize. Numerous awards from national and international competitions, ecstatic reviews and the receipt of two of Germany’s top classical music awards, the ECHO Klassik, reflect her remarkable career. Her teachers include Bernard Ringeisen in Paris, himself a student of Marguerite Long, friend and student of Maurice Ravel.

Works:

 •  Ravel: Gaspard de la Nuit
 •  Ravel: Miroirs, M.43
 •  Ravel: Miroirs, M.43: No. 1 Noctuelles
 •  Ravel: Miroirs, M.43: No. 2 Oiseaux tristes
 •  Ravel: Miroirs, M.43: No. 3 Une barque sur l'océan
 •  Ravel: Miroirs, M.43: No. 4 Alborada del gracioso
 •  Ravel: Miroirs, M.43: No. 5 La Vallee des Cloches
 •  Ravel: Pavane pour une infante défunte