Abstract:
The purpose of this study is to explore Ravel’s stylistic approach and inimitable textural
characteristics in his three water pieces: Jeux d’eau, Une barque sur l’ocean, and Ondine. Through
this study I aim to show the development of Ravel’s compositional style in his piano works related
to water, especially the relationship between musical components and extra-musical ideas.
Therefore, I will discuss and analyze these three pieces from multiple perspectives: timbre,
harmony, and rhythm. As part of the analysis, I will also be looking at a myriad of textural levels
and how these characteristics and the overall sonorities relate to portraying water.