An American in Paris III: Blues Theme by George Gershwin is a masterful blend of jazz and classical traditions, encapsulating the vibrant spirit of Gershwin's iconic style. This piece brims with sultry blues harmonies and rich orchestral textures, painting a vivid picture of Parisian life through the eyes of an American traveler.

The theme unfolds with a soulful and languid melody, echoing the quintessential blues sound while capturing a sense of longing and sophistication. The interplay between lush orchestration and jazzy rhythms evokes the charm and complexity of a city alive with culture and contrasts.

A timeless celebration of Gershwin's genius, Blues Theme resonates with a universal appeal, offering listeners a glimpse into the composer's innovative melding of musical worlds and his enduring influence on 20th-century music.

An American In Paris III Blues Theme

One of those pieces that teaches you how to listen differently. Rothko Chapel (1971) isn’t about melody or rhythm — it’s about space, color, and presence. Feldman wrote it for choir, soprano and alto soloists, viola, celesta, and percussion, to inhabit the Houston chapel where Rothko’s paintings surround you like a weightless wall. It’s fragile, slow, almost disappearing… but it stays with you long after the sound fades.

This is a live performance I had the privilege to conduct — captured in its raw, ephemeral beauty.

Performers:
Slovenian Philharmonic Choir
Marco Ozbic — conductor
Maja Rome — viola
Špela Cvikl — percussion
Alexandra Verbitskaya — celesta
Monika Fele - soprano
Urška Bernik - alto

Morton Feldman - Rothko Chapel - LIVE performance

Maurice Ravel (1875–1937)
Maurice Ravel was a French composer, pianist, and conductor, celebrated as one of the most prominent and innovative figures of the early 20th century. Born on March 7, 1875, in Ciboure, France, Ravel’s music is known for its exquisite craftsmanship, vivid orchestration, and seamless blend of classical tradition with modernist innovation.

Often associated with Impressionism alongside Claude Debussy, Ravel’s style is distinct, marked by clarity, elegance, and a fascination with diverse musical influences, from jazz to Spanish folk music. His most famous works include Boléro, a mesmerizing orchestral piece renowned for its hypnotic repetition and gradual crescendo, Daphnis et Chloé, a lush ballet score, and Pavane pour une infante défunte, a poignant and graceful piano composition. Ravel’s Rhapsodie espagnole and Gaspard de la nuit further demonstrate his mastery of orchestration and virtuosity in piano writing.

Ravel was also a pioneer of orchestral arrangement, as evidenced by his celebrated orchestration of Modest Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition, which remains one of the most performed and recorded versions of the work. His keen attention to detail and innovative use of harmony and rhythm have made his compositions a cornerstone of both the classical and modern repertoire.

Despite his relatively small output compared to some of his contemporaries, Ravel's influence on music is immense. His works continue to captivate audiences with their beauty, sophistication, and emotional depth. A perfectionist, Ravel was known for revising his works extensively, ensuring that every note served its purpose. He remained active as a composer and conductor until a neurological condition in his later years curtailed his creative output. Ravel passed away on December 28, 1937, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire musicians and listeners around the world.

The Maurice Ravel profile on SoundCloud is dedicated to celebrating his extraordinary contributions to classical music. Featuring a wide range of interpretations, from intimate piano solos to grand orchestral pieces, the profile offers listeners an immersive journey into Ravel’s rich and diverse musical world.

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