Claude Debussy

A true classical master

Biography

Claude Debussy (1862-1918) was a French composer who is often regarded as the father of musical Impressionism, although he himself disliked the term. Born in Saint-Germain-en-Laye, Debussy showed early musical promise and entered the Paris Conservatoire at the age of ten. His innovative approach to harmony, form, and timbre broke away from the traditions of the Romantic era and paved the way for many 20th-century musical developments. Debussy's works are known for their atmospheric qualities and use of non-traditional scales and chromaticism. Some of his most famous pieces evoke images of nature and water, reflecting his interest in creating musical "impressions" rather than adhering to classical forms. Despite his relatively small output, Debussy's influence on modern music is profound, and his works remain central to the piano and orchestral repertoire.

List of Notable Works

  • Clair de Lune (from Suite Bergamasque)
  • Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune
  • La Mer
  • Arabesque No. 1
  • Children's Corner Suite
  • Deux Arabesques
  • Images (Books I and II)
  • Nocturnes
  • Pelléas et Mélisande (Opera)
  • Préludes (Books I and II)
All works

Links

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Claude Debussy's House

The museum assembles a collection of objects associated with the famous French composer in the house where he was born.

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