Composition Techniques In Ravel’s Song Cycle For Voice And Orchestra Scheherazade

Scheherazade is one of Maurice Ravel’s important works that was composed in 1903.It is a song cycle that is for mezzo-soprano and orchestra.The work is Ravel’s early work,which was composed when Ravel studied in Paris Conservatory.This article is based on the composition’s point of view.First,I analyze the lyrics,materials,structure,orchestration and modes of this work,and to explore the logic and techniques of Ravel’s composition in this work.Then,I purpose to demonstrate that how could Ravel associate the voice and orchestra with the literary plots and intension of the lyrics,and demonstrate the relationship among the three songs in the cycle.In addition,I contrast Scheherazade with other works of Ravel,including the comparison with not only the works of similar subjects such as the overture Scheherazade,and also the works of similar genres such as the works for voice and orchestra,voice and piano,voice and chamber,which is from different periods of Ravel’s composition.I purpose to extend my demonstration,and examine the relevance between Scheherazade and other works of Ravel,and explore the individuality and characteristic of his composition.