It is not without irony that, before the 20th century, some of the most famous “Spanish” classical music was written by French composers. Romantic-era artists and intellectuals viewed Spain as a land of seduction and mystery, captivated by its Moorish palaces and gardens, vibrant festivals, bullfights, colourful costumes, castanets, and flamenco. While Bizet’s Carmen remains the most iconic example, pride of place arguably belongs to Camille Saint-Saëns, whose Introduction and Rondo capriccioso for violin and orchestra (1863) already possessed a distinctly Hispanic flavour, Carmen would not appear for another twelve years. In Ravel’s case, Spain was already in his blood through the influence of his Basque mother. Yet it amazed many musicians, including Manuel de Falla, that he could instinctively evoke such an authentic Spanish musical idiom. The idea for this recording grew out of conductor Pierre Bleuse’s desire to immerse himself and the musicians of the Odense Symphony Orchestra in the music of Maurice Ravel, particularly the works inspired by Spain. Together, they have captured the extraordinary palette of colours, rhythmic vitality, and subtle articulations that bring this music vividly to life. French conductor Pierre Bleuse has established himself as one of the most dynamic and versatile musicians of his generation. Since 2021, he has served as Music Director of both Ensemble intercontemporain in Paris and the Odense Symphony Orchestra, while also serving as Artistic Director of the Pablo Casals Festival in Prades. Bleuse is especially admired for his interpretations of the French orchestral repertoire, and Ravel in particular. As you will hear on this, Pierre Bleuse’s OUR Recordings debut, his performances combine elegance with dramatic intensity, revealing not only the brilliance of Ravel’s orchestration but also the expressive depth beneath its shimmering surface.