Sérénade grotesque

Initially only referred to as “Sérénade” in the autograph, and then more precisely as “Sérénade grotesque” in the composer’s later autobiography, the composition is Ravel’s earliest known piano work. It was presumably written in 1893 and remained unpublished during his lifetime. Ravel himself pointed out the influence of composer Emmanuel Chabrier, whom he admired throughout his life, which is apparent in the bizarre twists. However, individual traits such as dissonant harshness or the Pizzicatissimo at the beginning are discernible pointing to Ravel’s later style. Thus, the technically not too difficult “Sérénade grotesque” is a good introduction to Ravel’s piano cosmos – especially since Cédric Tiberghien, a true connoisseur of Ravel’s piano music, was responsible for the fingerings.