At the turn of the 20th century, French composers sought new colours and textures. Debussy’s Première rhapsodie (1909–10) glows with atmosphere and virtuosity, while his Sonata for flute, viola and harp (1915) revives Baroque elegance with an unusual blend of instruments.

Ravel’s Introduction and Allegro (1905), a showcase for the harp, sparkles with delicacy and rhythmic drive. His Violin Sonata No 2 (1923–27) embraces jazz influences, blending French refinement with American rhythms in a strikingly modern, cosmopolitan voice.