Boléro

Maurice Ravel

Herbert von Karajan / Berlin Philharmonic

mid-1960s

First recommendation (from the Debussy disc). Played beautifully, maybe a bit longer (slower), which Ravel preferred. It builds slowly and the Berlin strings pack a punch at the end.

Apple Music — Boléro within a Debussy and Ravel collection.

Jean Martinon / Orchestre de Paris

1974

From an all-Ravel set. Taken a shade faster, but really exciting, with wonderful virtuosic playing.

Apple Music — Boléro within a Ravel orchestral collection.

Piero Coppola / unidentified orchestra

1930 First-ever recording. Ravel was in attendance. Surprisingly well recorded, fairly clear.

The very first recording, with Ravel's stamp of authority. Uses the slower tempo Ravel preferred, allowing the tension and mesmerizing effect to build slowly. Great character.