The Lure of the Lyric: Tackling a Musical Crossword Clue
The crossword, a daily mental exercise for some, a leisurely pastime for others, and an outright obsession for a select few. Whatever your level of engagement, the satisfying
click
when a seemingly impossible word finally falls into place is a unique pleasure. And within the world of crosswords, certain clues consistently present a delightful challenge. Today, we’re delving into one such conundrum: “Musical piece by Ravel (6).”
Maurice Ravel, the celebrated French composer, is a name synonymous with exquisite orchestration, vibrant harmonies, and a touch of impressionistic magic. His compositions are instantly recognizable, even to those with a passing familiarity with classical music. Think of the swirling colours of
Boléro
, the playful elegance of
Pavane pour une infante défunte
, or the dazzling brilliance of
Daphnis et Chloé
.
The beauty, and sometimes the frustration, of a musical crossword clue lies in the multifaceted nature of musical works. The clue itself may be deceptively simple, but unraveling it often requires navigating a complex web of possibilities. Are we looking for a specific movement within a larger work? A standalone piece? A work originally conceived for a particular instrument or ensemble?
When faced with a “Musical piece by Ravel” clue, several avenues of investigation open up. Firstly, consider the sheer scope of Ravel’s output. He composed in various genres, from orchestral suites and concertos to operas, ballets, and chamber music. Each of these categories offers a potential solution, depending on the number of letters required.
Secondly, pay close attention to the wording of the clue. The use of “piece” suggests a self-contained work, rather than a section of a larger composition. However, crossword constructors are notorious for their clever wordplay, so never completely dismiss any possibilities based on assumptions.
Thirdly, the length of the required answer is crucial. In this case, we’re looking for a six-letter word. This significantly narrows down the options, excluding many of Ravel’s more well-known and lengthier works. Think about the less ubiquitous titles, the shorter compositions, and the pieces that might be known by a shortened or alternative name.
Furthermore, consider the possibility of abbreviations. While less common, crosswords occasionally employ abbreviations for musical terms or titles. Could a common abbreviation related to Ravel’s music fit the bill?
Finally, don’t overlook the connections between Ravel’s works. Did he arrange any of his compositions for different instruments or ensembles? Did a particular piece inspire a subsequent work with a related title? Exploring these connections might reveal the elusive six-letter answer.
Solving this crossword clue demands a blend of musical knowledge, deduction, and a dash of crossword intuition. By carefully considering the information provided in the clue – the composer, the type of work, and the length of the answer – you can significantly increase your chances of success. Remember to think laterally, explore different possibilities, and, perhaps most importantly, enjoy the process of discovery. The thrill of uncovering the solution is well worth the effort! Good luck with your crossword solving!
Available Answers:
BOLERO.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Tuesday, 29 July 2025