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Celebrating 50 years on FM 91.5
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In celebration of the 40th anniversary of WXXI-FM Classical 91.5 (in 2014), we asked you to help us celebrate. Beginning Tuesday, April 15th, we played your top 40 favorite classical works on air throughout the day, and posted more information about your favorites right here on this page. Learn more about each work that you chose as your top 40 favorites on Classical 91.5.

#37 Maurice Ravel

Boléro ?

Boléro is a one-movement orchestral piece by Maurice Ravel that’s remarkable for many reasons.  There’s not a single written crescendo or tempo change, yet the whole work builds to an exciting climax.  Commissioned by Russian actress and dancer Ida Rubinstein, Boléro created a sensation at its premiere in 1928. Ravel was surprised by its popularity. “I have written only one masterpiece,” he reportedly said with a hint of snark. “That is Boléro.  Unfortunately, it contains no music.” 

Image Credit:

Marcelle Lender Dancing the Bolero in "Chilperic" 1896 Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec (1864-1901 French)

Oil on canvas J. H. Whitney Private Collection, New York, USA ?

www.flickr.com?