à R. (hommage à Maurice Ravel) (1987) by Iannis Xenakis
for piano

à R. (hommage á Maurice Ravel) was commissioned by Radio France to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Ravel's death. à R. is both virtuosic and concise. The piece is characterized by rapid scalar passages interrupted by resonant, sustaining chords; impressive in virtuosity and power, arid in its intransigence, its frenzied gestures challenge both the performer and the listener.

[from program for November 12, 2001 concert]