Once Upon A Time in Chamber Music: An Analysis of Chamber Works Based on Fairy Tale Themes by Maurice Ravel and Valery Tarakanov

The purpose of this dissertation is to analyze the transformation of the written fairy tale into musical compositions for chamber ensemble with piano. The two works examined in this study are Maurice Ravel\u27s Ma Mere l\u27Oye (Mother Goose) and Valery Tarakanov\u27s Laryets Skazok, or Chest of Fairy-tales. Through an analysis of the compositional techniques employed by both composers, my goal is to point to those elements which contribute to the work succeeding as a vehicle for bringing aspects of the fairy tale story to life. I chose these two works because among the long list of similar compositions, they are exceptionally effective at communicating the fairy tale and retaining foundational literary elements of the story. It is my desire to showcase them both as standouts in the genre.The first chapter serves as an introduction to the fairy tale genre and to the connection between fairy tales and music. The second chapter is an analysis of Ravel\u27s work Ma Mere l\u27Oye, that also includes a look at Ravel\u27s life, an investigation into the background of the five fairy tales used in the suite, and an in depth analysis of the music. Finally, the third chapter examines the composition of Valery Tarakanov, Laryets Skazok, or Chest of Fairy-tales. Through careful analysis, it is my hope that I might begin to draw attention to the work of Valery Tarakanov, because while his works are known and performed frequently throughout Russia, they sadly remain unknown and untouched in the United States. This document shows the techniques employed by Mr. Tarakanov that contribute to it successfully bringing four fairy tales to life and makes a push for further exploration of his work