The soft light of the early morning, the song of the cicadas and the beguiling scent of thyme: Matinée de Provence describes a morning in Provence, from the first rays of sunshine to the sweltering midday heat. Ravel captures the imagery of the text with striking melodies, colorful harmonies and brilliant orchestration. The result is a musical mood piece with a captivating atmosphere that exudes sensuality – a true choral gem and an exciting addition to the concert repertoire for mixed choirs.

Matinée de Provence was Maurice Ravel’s submission to the prestigious Prix de Rome in 1903 – already his fourth attempt. The coveted prize bestowed by Paris’s Académie des Beaux-Arts included a bursary for a multi-year study trip to Rome. Although Ravel was once again unsuccessful, his composition did make it through to the final round. Despite the strict conditions imposed by the competition rules, the work is still an impressive demonstration of Ravel’s characteristic tonal language.

This first Urtext edition is based on the composer’s autograph score. Free pronunciation aids are available for rehearsal.