Ravel was a leading composer of French modernism who, though not prolific in terms of number of works, successively produced important masterpieces.

Ravel initially held Debussy in high esteem, and Debussy's influence was strongly reflected in his early works. However, he gradually sought clearer melodies and a more concise style, and began to incorporate 18th-century classical tendencies into his compositions. This tendency is most succinctly expressed in Le Tombeau de Couperin, composed between 1914 and 1917 as an homage to 18th-century French music, exemplified by Couperin. The title's "tomb" is likely a direct translation of the French word "tombeau," but here it is understood to refer to its other meaning: "a piece commemorating the deceased." The suite consists of six movements, primarily in classical dance forms, with each movement dedicated to one of his six friends who died in World War I. The premiere was given in Paris on April 11, 1919, by the renowned French pianist Marguerite Long, widow of Captain Marliave, a musicologist to whom the sixth movement is dedicated.

Le Tombeau de Couperin

• Prélude
  A flowing melody in 12/8 time subtly passes through various tonalities.
• Fugue
  A substantial three-voice fugue employing inversion, triple canon, and stretto, yet subtly imbued with Ravel's characteristic serenity.
• Forlane
  The Forlane, a dance in 6/8 time originating from Northern Italy, was frequently used in 17th-century French music. While exhibiting the strongest classical tendencies, Ravel's unique and skillful harmonies are also discernible.
• Rigaudon
  The Rigaudon is a duple-meter dance originating from Provence, frequently used in 17th-century French court music. A bright and lively main section contrasts with a melancholic middle section.
• Menuet
  An elegant, graceful, and gentle piece. The trio section is marked "Musette," and a subtly dramatic tension builds up masterfully.
• Toccata
  A virtuosic piece characterized by a continuous rapid succession of sixteenth notes, demanding extremely high technical skill. The gradually escalating tension and brilliant sensibility are truly overwhelming.