Valse, La

Choreographic symphony by MAURICE RAVEL, 1919-20, first performed in Paris. The WALTZ rhythm is purposely dimmed as though perceived through an acoustical fog, but gradually the familiar shape becomes more and more dominant until it overwhelms the senses with a powerful explosion of sound.

La Valse is Ravel's savage parody on the world of France's World War I enemies. The work was first performed as a ballet in Paris in 1928. There is also a two-piano version from 1921.