Claude Debussy, the composer of these Préludes, believed that music should not be confined to strict, traditional forms, but rather consist of "colours and time expressed in rhythm."
Recording & Production
This recording was made in the Temple du Bon-Secours in Paris between September 11 and 15, 2017, using a Yamaha CFX concert grand piano.
Historical Context
The term 'Impressionism' was borrowed from painting, where it meant depicting things as they appear under the influence of atmosphere and light, rather than as they are known to be.
Compositional Technique
Debussy's Préludes, like those of Bach and Chopin, comprise 24 compositions, but Debussy's do not follow a didactic key ordering.
Compositional Technique
Debussy incorporated musical quotations into his Préludes, such as the British national anthem in 'Hommage à S. Pickwick' and Oberon's horn call from Carl Maria von Weber's opera in 'Les fées sont d'exquises danseuses'.
Performer Biography
Eloïse Bella Kohn, the pianist on this recording, was born in Paris in 1991 and began her musical education at the Yamaha music school at the age of four.
Compositional Technique
Debussy often used "poetic anchors" or evocative titles for his Préludes, drawing inspiration from nature, dance, fantasy, and even humor.
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