Ravel: Miroirs

By Maurice Ravel

Any pianist learning Miroirs should start with this edition. The manuscript and the Durand edition are filled with major errors, such as misalignment of systems and rhythmic errors, that make these very difficult to learn. The editor has carefully addressed these, often using information from the dedicatees of the pieces...

who studied with Ravel, and explains all her changes. Further, the engraving is superior as is true with most of the Alfred editions. This is particularly important in the dense arpeggios in Barque etc. Highly recommended.

This version is far too fussy. It has strange pedal markings and even a time before each piece for how long it should be played. Most copies of Ravel's music are fine, but this one is too fussy. I recommend Durand.

The Miroirs by Maurice Ravel are truly some of the most difficult pieces I have ever tried to play. However, it is also very rewarding to hear yourself play them. These pieces abound in original and beautiful sonorities, much like the Images by Claude Debussy. This edition of the Miroirs...

is very useful, because it includes useful commentary and fingerings. I definitely would recommend "Alborada del Gracioso" and "Une Barque sur l'Ocean." Any advanced pianist will find hours of enjoyment studying these magnificent pieces.

This suite is one of Ravel's most imaginative and captivating, besides his "Gaspard de la Nuit," which is much more difficult than this suite. This edition is also helpful with editorial fingering, and editorial notes. A good purchase for the aspiring pianist.