This lyrical fantasy by Ravel features a rebellious child plunged into a dreamlike world where objects and animals come to life. The Conservatoire is celebrating its centenary with its operatic ensembles and orchestra.
In a country house, a child sees his daydream turn into aggression. Disobedient and insolent, his mother punishes him. In a fit of anger, the child revolts and destroys all the objects around him. Drunk with rebellion, he gives himself over to sleep. Spells then visit his dreams: animals and objects come to life and threaten the child in a fantastic game… Commissioned by the director of the Paris Opera, Jacques Rouché, this lyrical fantasy with a libretto by Colette premiered on March 21, 1925, at the Monte Carlo Opera. Minuet, habanera, ragtime, bravura aria, music-hall, Renaissance song, Bach-style fugue… The full range of Ravel’s musical aspirations can be found here. The spells work through a combination of strange harmonized sounds, orchestrated with elusive refinement. The lyrical singing class, the lyrical workshop, and the symphony orchestra of the Conservatory celebrate the centenary of the work and the 150th anniversary of its exceptional composer.
