1. EachPod

Is Ravel’s Bolero the worst piece ever written?

Author
London Philharmonic Orchestra
Published
Thu 04 Sep 2025
Episode Link
https://shows.acast.com/offstagepod/episodes/is-ravels-bolero-the-worst-piece-ever-written

Today, we’re unravelling a piece that’s as simple as it is spellbinding - one of the most well known and oddly mesmerising compositions of the 20th century. Some call it brilliant, others find it unbearable, and few sit on the fence. And the piece that’s at the heart of this marmite reputation? Ravel’s Bolero. We explore what makes this 15-minute loop so unforgettable, from its relentless snare drum rhythm to its slow-burning crescendo to determine what it is that keeps listeners hooked (or drives them mad). Plus, things get very heated between Andy and Sue in the end-of-episode quiz…


#PitchMeClassical

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