Ma mère l’Oye (Mother Goose) – complete ballet

Ravel's "Ma mère l'Oye" was originally composed in 1908 as a four-hand piano suite and was orchestrated in 1911, before the composer expanded the material into a complete ballet in 1912. The work exemplifies French music of the early 20th century with its predilection for refined sonic magic and poetic miniature painting. Ravel created here a dream world full of delicate orchestral tones and subtle harmonic turns that impressively demonstrates his mastery of instrumentation.

The music is characterized by chamber music-like transparency, despite being conceived for large orchestra. Ravel employs impressionistic tonal colors and modal harmonies to create a fairy-tale atmosphere. Particularly characteristic are the fine wind solos, the shimmering string sounds, and the sparing but effective use of percussion.

"Ma mère l'Oye" is regarded as one of the most successful examples of Ravel's ability to clothe complex musical structures in seemingly simple, appealing forms. The work stands in the tradition of French ballet music and is said to have impressed audiences at its early performances through its orchestral delicacy and poetic character.