Ravel’s Pavane pour une infante défunte ("Pavane for a Dead Princess") was originally composed for solo piano in 1899 but was later orchestrated in 1910, giving the piece a richer, more atmospheric quality. In the orchestral version, Ravel employs a shimmering array of strings, woodwinds, and delicate brass to evoke a sense of nobility and melancholy, as if paying tribute to a lost royal figure. The orchestration brings an ethereal depth to the music, with the instruments blending to create a dreamlike atmosphere, perfectly complementing the piece's title.

The structure of the pavane, a slow, stately dance, is preserved in the orchestral arrangement, with Ravel’s careful use of orchestral color allowing for a refined exploration of the melody. The strings, especially the violins, carry the main theme with a rich, almost fragile quality, while the woodwinds, particularly the flute, add a lyrical, wistful dimension. The brass and percussion are used sparingly, providing a subtle weight to the piece without detracting from its overall delicacy and introspection.

Ravel’s Pavane for a Dead Princess captures a perfect balance between sadness and beauty, drawing on a French courtly tradition while being unmistakably modern in its expressiveness. The orchestral version enhances the original piano composition, offering a poignant portrayal of both grace and sorrow. Through this work, Ravel demonstrates his mastery in orchestration, creating a piece that is both emotionally evocative and delicately refined.