Debussy: Two Arabesques for Flute & Piano
by Claude Debussy
Flute Solo - Digital Sheet Music

Flute,Piano - Level 3 - Digital Download

SKU: A0.551658

Composed by Claude Debussy. Arranged by James Guthrie, ASCAP. 20th Century,Instructional,Standards. Score and part. 44 pages. Jmsgu3 #5330341. Published by jmsgu3 (A0.551658).

Debussy's Arabesques are considered one of the earliest expressions of French impressionism. They are a suite of two piano pieces that contain hints of Debussy's developing musical style. Although they received little attention when first published, they are early impressionist standards. Debussy seems to wander through modes and keys, achieving evocative scenes throughout both pieces. The Arabesques are essential in the history of music as they represent a significant development in the impressionist movement.

Claude Debussy, born in 1862, was a French composer who developed a highly original system of harmony and musical structure that expressed the ideals of the Impressionist and Symbolist painters and writers of his time. He is considered one of the most important and influential composers of the 20th century. Debussy's compositions, including his orchestral poems and piano music, helped establish the musical language for much of the twentieth century. Critics often credited Debussy with pioneering an impressionism genre, although Debussy consistently rejected the term. Debussy's best-known musical arabesque is his Prélude à l’après-midi d’un faune (1894).
 
Debussy's Arabesque No. 2 from his Deux Arabesques is an essential and notable work for several reasons: It captures the essence of the arabesque musical form in a purely musical way. Debussy translated the meandering, ornamental qualities of the arabesque art form into a delicate, graceful, and playful piano composition. The second arabesque is more lively and energetic than the first, with a "Allegretto scherzando" tempo marking that gives it a bubbly, childlike character.14 This contrasts with the first arabesque's more serene and contemplative nature. Debussy's use of modulations, key changes, and rhythmic motifs like triplet-sixteenth-plus-eighth patterns create a sense of whimsy and lightness in the second arabesque.14 This demonstrates Debussy's skill in evoking a specific mood and atmosphere through his impressionistic compositional style. While lesser known than the first, the second arabesque is still an important and influential work that has been sampled and referenced in pop culture, such as by Alicia Keys. This speaks to Debussy's arabesque compositions' enduring popularity and impact. In summary, Debussy's Arabesque No. 2 is a significant work that exemplifies his ability to capture the essence of the arabesque art form in purely musical terms while also showcasing his talent for evoking a sense of playfulness and lightness through his impressionistic compositional techniques.