Debussy: Préludes - Impressionist Piano Masterworks CD

UPC: 9002986555445

MPN: CD 155.544

Brand Name: Old Vienna Classic

Overview

Experience the ethereal beauty and revolutionary genius of Claude Debussy through this comprehensive collection of his piano Préludes, masterfully performed by acclaimed pianist Jeni Zaharieva. This recording presents Debussy's complete Préludes from Books I and II, compositions that transformed piano literature and established Debussy as the father of musical Impressionism. Written between 1909 and 1913, these twenty-four miniature tone poems evoke vivid imagery ranging from ancient Greek dancers and submerged cathedrals to Spanish wine gates and mythological water nymphs. Zaharieva's sensitive interpretation captures the delicate colors, atmospheric harmonies, and poetic depth that make these works eternal treasures of the piano repertoire. Each prelude offers a unique soundscape that reflects Debussy's fascination with nature, mythology, literature, and exotic cultures, creating music that speaks to the soul while challenging conventional harmonic boundaries. This recording invites listeners into Debussy's impressionistic world where music becomes painting, poetry becomes sound, and the piano becomes an orchestra of infinite color.

Product Features

• Format: Audio CD, Stereo, Album
• Total Runtime: Approximately 70 minutes
• Genre: Classical - Impressionist Piano Music
• Country of Release: Europe
• Label: Old Vienna Classic
• Catalog Number: CD 155.544
• Recording Quality: Stereo
• Composer: Claude Debussy (1862-1918)
• Pianist: Jeni Zaharieva
• Works Included: Complete Préludes, Book I (1909-1910) and Book II (1912-1913)
• Number of Tracks: 23 Préludes
• Musical Period: Late Romantic/Early Modern (Impressionism)
• Instrument: Solo Piano
• Musical Style: Impressionistic, Programmatic Piano Music

Interesting Facts

Claude Debussy, born Achille-Claude Debussy on August 22, 1862, in Saint-Germain-en-Laye, France, revolutionized classical music by breaking away from traditional harmonic structures and creating a new musical language inspired by visual art, poetry, and nature. Though often labeled the first Impressionist composer, Debussy himself rejected this classification, preferring to describe his music as "symbolist" or simply as his own personal expression. His innovative approach to harmony, including extensive use of whole-tone scales, parallel chords, and unresolved dissonances, profoundly influenced twentieth-century music and inspired countless composers who followed.

The Préludes represent the pinnacle of Debussy's piano writing, combining technical brilliance with profound artistic vision. Unlike Chopin's preludes, which follow the cycle of all major and minor keys, Debussy's preludes are individual character pieces, each with a descriptive title placed enigmatically at the end of the score rather than the beginning—a subtle suggestion that the music should speak for itself before being labeled. Book I, completed between 1909 and 1910, includes such beloved works as "La Cathédrale Engloutie" (The Sunken Cathedral), which evokes the legendary city of Ys rising from Breton waters, and "La Fille aux Cheveux de Lin" (The Girl with the Flaxen Hair), inspired by a poem by Leconte de Lisle.

Book II, finished in 1912-1913, demonstrates even greater harmonic daring and includes "Feuilles Mortes" (Dead Leaves), "La Puerta del Vino" (The Wine Gate), inspired by a postcard of the Alhambra in Granada, and "Ondine," depicting the seductive water nymph from French mythology. Debussy's fascination with Spanish culture, evident in several preludes, reflected the broader European interest in exotic themes during the Belle Époque. His use of the piano to create orchestral colors and atmospheric effects was unprecedented, treating the instrument as a vehicle for painting sonic landscapes.

Jeni Zaharieva brings her considerable artistry to these demanding works, navigating their technical challenges while revealing their poetic essence. The pianist's sensitivity to Debussy's subtle dynamics, pedaling effects, and harmonic color ensures that each prelude emerges as a distinct artistic statement. Debussy passed away on March 25, 1918, during World War I, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire musicians and listeners worldwide. His Préludes remain essential repertoire for pianists and beloved treasures for audiences seeking music that transcends time and speaks directly to the human spirit.

Track Listing

Préludes, Book I (1909-1910):

1. Danseuses de Delphes (Dancers of Delphi) - 2:59
2. Voiles (Sails/Veils) - 3:29
3. Le Vent dans la Plaine (The Wind in the Plain) - 2:13
4. Les Sons et les Parfums Tournent dans l'Air du Soir (Sounds and Fragrances Swirl in the Evening Air) - 3:33
5. Les Collines d'Anacapri (The Hills of Anacapri) - 3:04
6. Des Pas sur la Neige (Footsteps in the Snow) - 3:32
7. Ce Qu'a Vu le Vent d'Ouest (What the West Wind Saw) - 3:11
8. La Fille aux Cheveux de Lin (The Girl with the Flaxen Hair) - 2:15
9. La Sérénade Interrompue (The Interrupted Serenade) - 2:30
10. La Cathédrale Engloutie (The Sunken Cathedral) - 5:37
11. La Danse de Puck (Puck's Dance) - 2:33
12. Minstrels - 2:10

Préludes, Book II (1912-1913):

1. Brouillards (Mists) - 3:03
2. Feuilles Mortes (Dead Leaves) - 2:46
3. La Puerta del Vino (The Wine Gate) - 3:04
4. "Les Fées Sont d'Exquises Danseuses" (The Fairies Are Exquisite Dancers) - 2:45
5. Bruyères (Heaths) - 2:41
6. General Lavine - Eccentric - 2:20
7. La Terrasse des Audiences du Clair de Lune (The Terrace of Audiences in the Moonlight) - 4:28
8. Ondine - 3:20
9. Hommage à S. Pickwick, Esq., P.P.M.P.C. - 2:13
10. Canope (Canopic Jar) - 2:52
11. Les Tierces Alternées (Alternating Thirds) - 2:17

Publisher Information

Old Vienna Classic is a respected European classical music label dedicated to preserving and presenting exceptional performances of the great classical repertoire. The label specializes in high-quality stereo recordings featuring accomplished soloists, chamber ensembles, and orchestras performing works from the Baroque through Modern periods. Old Vienna Classic has built its reputation on offering accessible yet authoritative interpretations of both beloved masterworks and lesser-known gems from the classical canon. Their catalog emphasizes the Central European musical tradition while also encompassing French, Italian, Russian, and other national schools of composition. With careful attention to sound engineering and artistic integrity, Old Vienna Classic provides listeners with reliable recordings that honor the composers' intentions while showcasing the talents of dedicated performing artists. The label's commitment to making classical music available to broad audiences has made it a valued resource for music lovers, educators, and students exploring the rich heritage of Western art music.

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