Maurice Ravel (1875–1937) was a celebrated French composer, pianist, and conductor, widely recognized as one of the leading figures in early twentieth-century music. Often linked with Impressionism alongside Debussy, Ravel developed a distinctive style marked by clarity, inventive forms, and colorful orchestration. He skillfully blended elements of modernism, baroque, neoclassicism, and later, jazz, into his works. After facing resistance from the conservative Paris Conservatoire, Ravel forged his own path, creating iconic pieces such as Boléro and complex works like Daphnis et Chloé. His music spans piano pieces, chamber works, ballet scores, operas, and song cycles, many of which exist in both piano and orchestral versions. Renowned for his orchestration, he famously arranged Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition for orchestra. Despite producing fewer works than his peers, Ravel's compositions are known for their meticulous craft and enduring popularity. He was also among the early composers to embrace recording technology, helping his music reach audiences worldwide.