Debussy -- An Introduction to His Piano Music

by Claude Debussy (Composer)

This collection of Debussy's popular intermediate pieces includes Clair de lune," "Reverie," "Le petit nègre," the complete "Children's Corner Suite" and other works. The introductory pages discuss symbolist poetry, French Impressionist painters and Debussy's musical style. A variety of photographs taken throughout the composer's life are also included. "

Genres: Music

64 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 1984

About the author

Claude-Achille Debussy (22 August 1862 – 25 March 1918) was a French composer. Along with Maurice Ravel, he was one of the most prominent figures associated with Impressionist music, though he himself disliked the term when applied to his compositions. He was made Chevalier of the Legion of Honour in his native France in 1903. Debussy was among the most influential composers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and his use of non-traditional scales and chromaticism influenced many composers who followed.

Debussy's music is noted for its sensory content and frequent usage of non-traditional tonalities. The prominent French literary style of his period was known as Symbolism, and this movement directly inspired Debussy both as a composer and as an active cultural participant.

Reviews

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book offers a very brief introduction to the world, person, and music of Claude Debussy. There are a few photographs and some further references including a collection of essays on music by Debussy. The piano music included is from different periods of Debussy's career and the book provides some introductory notes, translation of Debussy's notation, and fingering suggested by the editor (Debussy did not include fingerings). The CD is good quality and of assistance to get a sense of the pieces, especially of benefit when studying the music, as well as guiding the pianist new to Debussy. I believe this book and CD are a good way for students who have some background in piano but are currently not having formal lessons. Piano teachers may also find this useful for a more rounded, complete introduction of Debussy to their students.
This book is part of a series of books and CDs which also includes Bach, Beethoven, Burgmuller, Chopin, Clementi, Mozart, Schumann, and a Sonatina Album.