Synopses & Reviews
French composer Claude Debussy (1862-1918) created music that was revolutionary, with a distinctly modern sound that highlighted the intersection of art and life. Here, in this unique biography, David J. Code explores the important moments in the development of Debussys literary interests that shaped his music—and in the process brings to life Debussys sardonic personality.
Claude Debussy presents an in-depth look at how Debussys love for poetry influenced his musical compositions. Code explores both Debussys earlier years, filled with student cantatas inspired by Verlaine and Baudelaire, as well as his later works, dominated by nationalistic pieces inspired by French Renaissance poets and composed in the lead-up to World War I. Along the way, Code looks at Debussys orchestral compositions and operas, inspired by Stéphane Mallarmé and Maurice Maeterlinck.
This book will give readers a fresh way of listening to Debussys classic music by offering the most up-to-date critical analysis of the intersection of Debussys literary interests and musical compositions and will appeal to any reader with a love of Debussy, as well as modern music, literature, and the arts.
About the Author
David J. Code is lecturer in music at the University of Glasgow.
Table of Contents
Introduction
1 A Music that Clothes the Poetry
2 A Dream from Which One Draws Back the Veils
3 The Art of a Curious Savage
4 Something New, Which Surprises Even Ourselves
Epilogue
References
Select Bibliography
Select Discography
Acknowledgements
Photo Acknowledgements