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Debussy’s piano works are unique in their range of expression, and delicacy of tone. He was one of the great writers for the instrument. He wrote two sets of preludes and a set of twelve [[etude]]s that rank with [[Chopin]]’s as pinnacles of the art. Within these and other sets, are individual pieces that have escaped the confines of “art” and are heard with pleasure by many who have never heard of their creator: “Clair de Lune”, Golliwog’s Cakewalk”, “The Girl with the Flaxen Hair”, “The Sunken Cathedral”.

Debussy’s piano works are unique in their range of expression, and delicacy of tone. He was one of the great writers for the instrument. He wrote two sets of preludes and a set of twelve [[etude]]s that rank with [[Chopin]]’s as pinnacles of the art. Within these and other sets, are individual pieces that have escaped the confines of “art” and are heard with pleasure by many who have never heard of their creator: “Clair de Lune”, Golliwog’s Cakewalk”, “The Girl with the Flaxen Hair”, “The Sunken Cathedral”.

His many songs hold their place in the line of French “Melodie” running from [[Faure]] to Ravel and later. They are usually to words of the “Symbolist” poets, supported by delicate and sympathetic accompaniment.

His many songs hold their place in the line of French “[[Melodie]]” running from [[Faure]] to Ravel and later. They are usually to words of the “Symbolist” poets, supported by delicate and sympathetic accompaniment.

His chamber works must be mentioned. As well as the early quartet, he wrote sonatas for violin, for ‘cello and for the interesting combination of flute, viola and harp. A short piece for solo flute, “Syrinx”, is frequently heard.

His [[chamber music|chamber works]] must be mentioned. As well as the early quartet, and an even more youthful piano trio, he wrote sonatas for violin, for cello and for the interesting combination of flute, viola and harp. A short piece for solo flute, “Syrinx”, is frequently heard.

Claude Debussy died before his time, of cancer. He had planned the writing of six sonatas. It is a tragedy they cannot all be heard.

Claude Debussy died before his time, of cancer. He had planned the writing of six sonatas. It is a tragedy they cannot all be heard.