Claude Debussy (1862-1918)
Playing Debussy’s piano music came very naturally to me: getting the piano’s sound to glow and to speak in multiferous different ways. I have been inspired by Debussy’s bloody-mindedness, the originality of his music and the way he was able to make something simultaneously avant-garde and acceptable.
I enjoy trying to let my harmonies (chord designs in music) work so that they spell out one scale mode one moment, and suggest another the next, with the minimum of change. I am also inspired by the liquid nature of his forms, his delicate orchestration techniques and the symbolism of his music. Sumptuous.
Pieces to hear: Noctures, Prélude à l’après-midi d’un faune, Jeux, Piano Preludes.