Meaning: The quote "Music, I feel, must be emotional first and intellectual second" by Maurice Ravel, a prominent French composer, encapsulates a fundamental aspect of musical expression. Ravel, known for his rich and evocative compositions, believed in the primacy of emotion in music. In this quote, he emphasizes the importance of connecting with the audience on an emotional level, suggesting that the intellectual aspects of music should serve to enhance and support the emotional impact rather than overshadow it.

Ravel's perspective on the emotional essence of music reflects a broader philosophical debate within the world of music and the arts. Throughout history, musicians and composers have grappled with the balance between emotion and intellect in their creative endeavors. Ravel's stance aligns with the Romantic tradition of music, which prioritizes the expression of intense emotion, often drawing inspiration from personal experiences, nature, or literature.

When Ravel speaks of music being emotional first, he is highlighting the profound capacity of music to convey and evoke feelings. Music has a unique ability to communicate complex emotions, transcend language barriers, and resonate with listeners on a deeply personal level. Whether through the use of melody, harmony, rhythm, or timbre, composers harness the power of music to elicit joy, sorrow, nostalgia, excitement, or a myriad of other emotional states.

However, Ravel's assertion that music should be intellectual second does not imply a dismissal of the intellectual aspects of composition. Rather, it suggests that the structural and technical elements of music should serve the emotional content, rather than being an end in themselves. This viewpoint underscores the idea that the craftsmanship and intellectual rigor of music, such as harmonic progressions, formal structures, and orchestration techniques, should be employed in service of the emotional narrative or expression within the music.

Ravel's own compositions exemplify his belief in the primacy of emotion in music. Pieces such as "Boléro," "Pavane for a Dead Princess," and "Daphnis et Chloé" are renowned for their lush, expressive melodies, evocative harmonies, and vivid emotional landscapes. Ravel's meticulous attention to detail and innovative use of orchestration techniques serve to heighten the emotional impact of his music, showcasing his ability to seamlessly intertwine emotion and intellect in his compositions.

Moreover, Ravel's quote sheds light on the role of performers in conveying the emotional essence of music. Musicians are tasked with infusing their interpretations with the emotional depth and sensitivity envisioned by the composer. Whether through expressive phrasing, dynamic nuances, or tonal color, performers play a crucial role in translating the emotional intent of the music to the audience.

In conclusion, Maurice Ravel's assertion that "Music, I feel, must be emotional first and intellectual second" encapsulates his belief in the profound emotional power of music. By emphasizing the primacy of emotion in music, Ravel underscores the capacity of music to evoke and communicate deeply felt emotions. At the same time, he acknowledges the importance of the intellectual aspects of music, positioning them as valuable tools for supporting and enhancing the emotional impact of the music. Ravel's enduring legacy as a composer continues to inspire musicians and audiences to appreciate the emotional depth and expressive potential of music.