Claude Debussy

A detailed Summary of Claude Debussy

"Even though he grew up in France being a painter was more accepted than being a composer. His father thought that he would become a sailor. He had all the tools for a painter but he was said to have, having a musical ear, but of Debussy it could be said that he had the finest 'musical eye' of any composer" (Brown 16).

Claude Debussy is one of the most influential musicians of the twentieth century, loved by many people of different musical tastes. From his early childhood many people recognized his love of music, knowing that he was ready and willing to be a successful musician. Making people love and appreciate the deeper side of music was one of his personal goal; but not the only goal. Due to Claude's determination, passion, rebelliousness, and sufferings, he changed the way many people approach music today.

Achille-Claude Debussy was born in St. Germain-en-Laye, on August 22, 1862. He remained silent throughout his childhood, maintaining a level of secrecy that no one could understand. Many believe that he was ashamed of his background, but no one has solid evidence. He wasn't baptized into the church until 1864, leaving room for some speculation. "Out of the mystery have arisen vague questionings and inferences as

Claude was always willing to give a 110% into what he composed and into his performances. He disliked being second to anyone and not producing the best material made him feel worthless and confused. His attitude toward the piano was mixed because he couldn't play all that well, producing mediocre music troubled him. "Debussy wasn't familiar with the piano, he just liked music" (Brown 16). He loved the feeling of accomplishing a work that challenged him, making use of his many different talents made him feel accomplished.

to Debussy's parentage, for which no sensible basis can be found" (Thompson 34).

into a better overall musician. "Lavignac could see Debussy's talent and his individuality and inquisitive sense of invention." He liked to do things his way, Lavignac admired Debussy's intelligence and that helped him reassure the young man (Brown 19). He was determined to accomplish anything that he set his mind out to do. Many people said that he would struggle to become a great composer, but Claude knew otherwise. "He felt closer to painters and poets that to other musicians" (Gilbert 1). He liked to show up people who did not believe in him. For Claude, it was a way of expressing his true talents; no one can stop a determined mind when they are hard at work. "Time and time again he would amaze his fellow pupils and disconcert his teachers with improvisations that utilized progressions and harmonies outlawed by the textbooks. However, eventually even such diehard academicians as Marmontel and Durand were won over to Debussy because of his outstanding talent (Hutchinson Encyclopedia 1).

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Approximate Word count = 2211
Approximate Pages = 9 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: People