Sticky Notes: The Classical Music Podcast · Joshua Weilerstein

Ravel and Falla: Echoes of Spain

November 6, 2025·58 min·2 clips

Ravel composed his greatest Spanish works before ever visiting Spain—pure artistic intuition

Host Joshua Weilerstein explores the deep connection between Maurice Ravel and Spanish music, despite Ravel being French. The episode contrasts Ravel's Rhapsody Español with Manuel de Falla's Nights in the Gardens of Spain, examining how both composers used Spanish harmonies and orchestral color. Key revelation: Ravel's Spanish authenticity came from his Basque mother and Spanish heritage, not from visiting Spain—which he didn't do until 1923.

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