Besides riding a heavy Magma wave, I have been doing the same with Ravel. He has become a top 10 fav composer for me over the years, but on some days I have no qualms about placing him top 5, or even top 3. If all you have ever heard is Bolero (which I love BTW), then I would highly suggest exploring further because he is so much more than that piece. My admiration for Ravel started in grad school in 1996-1997 when I had to research Le Tombeau de Couperin, and compare/contrast the original piano versions (6 movements) with the orchestrated versions (4 movements). I went from largely being unfamiliar with his music to purchasing almost everything and digging in heavy.
I will generate a list of must-hear pieces when I have more time, but I will post a few of my favorite movements from a few of his pieces. He is an absolute incredible genius, and his orchestration skills are better than I can convey in words here. On the highest level with Mahler, Stravinsky, etc there. Any fans here - I'd love to hear from you. If you don't know his music, PLEASE do some research and explore his output, I think you will be amazed.
Maurice Ravel (1875 - 1937, France)
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