The Story Behind Ravel’s Boléro, One of the Most Played Airs in the World: Maurice Ravel’s Boléro is one of the most-played airs in the world. A new film by Anne Fontaine, “Boléro,” tells the story of how this iconic piece of music came to be.
The film begins in 1928 when Ravel was commissioned by the Russian dancer Ida Rubinstein to write the music for her next ballet. Rubinstein wanted a “carnal and bewitching” piece of music, and Ravel had just three months to deliver.
Ravel struggled to find inspiration, and he was eventually forced to retreat to his home in Montfort-l’Amaury to work on the piece. There, in the tiny rooms of his house, he finally found the inspiration he needed.
The Boléro is a sensual and mesmerizing piece of music, and it is easy to see why it has become so popular. The film “Boléro” captures the beauty and the mystery of this iconic work, and it is a must-see for any fan of classical music.
Interview with Anne Fontaine and Raphaël Personnaz
In an interview with France Musique, director Anne Fontaine and actor Raphaël Personnaz discuss the film “Boléro.”
Fontaine says that she was drawn to the story of the Boléro because it is a “universal” story about the creative process. She also says that she was fascinated by the character of Maurice Ravel, who was a complex and contradictory figure.
Personnaz, who plays Ravel in the film, says that he was challenged by the role, but he also found it to be very rewarding. He says that he learned a lot about Ravel during the filming process, and he hopes that the film will help to introduce Ravel’s music to a new audience.
The Soundtrack
The soundtrack to the film “Boléro” features a mix of classical and contemporary music. The classical selections include Ravel’s Boléro, of course, as well as other works by Ravel and other composers. The contemporary selections include songs by artists such as Nirvana, Kylie Minogue, and Kendrick Lamar.
The soundtrack is an eclectic mix of music, but it all fits together to create a cohesive and enjoyable listening experience. It is a great way to learn more about Ravel’s music, and it is also a great way to discover new contemporary artists.
Conclusion
The film “Boléro” is a fascinating and insightful look at the creative process. It is a must-see for any fan of classical music, and it is also a great way to learn more about the life and work of Maurice Ravel.