Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Claude Debussy's "Piano Works, Vol. 2," a captivating collection of solo piano pieces that showcase the composer's unique impressionistic style. Released in 1995 under the Naxos label, this album spans a total of 71 minutes, offering a rich and diverse listening experience.
The album features a delightful mix of well-known and lesser-known works, including the charming "Children's Corner" suite, which is sure to delight listeners of all ages. Each of the six movements in this suite paints a vivid musical picture, from the playful "Doctor Gradus ad Parnassum" to the serene "The Snow Is Dancing."
In addition to "Children's Corner," the album also includes the whimsical "La boîte à joujoux" (The Toy Box), a piano version of Debussy's ballet score that brings to life a magical world of toys and imagination. The six "Epigraphes antiques" offer a glimpse into Debussy's fascination with ancient Greek and Roman culture, while the evocative "Le petit nègre" and the lively "Golliwog's Cakewalk" showcase the composer's interest in non-Western musical traditions.
Recorded at the Temple Saint Marcel in Paris, this album benefits from the expert pianism of François-Joël Thiollier, whose nuanced and expressive playing brings out the full beauty of Debussy's music. The album's cover painting, "Landscape with Smokestacks" by Edgar Degas, adds a visual element that complements the musical journey within.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Debussy's music or a newcomer to his work, "Piano Works, Vol. 2" is sure to be a rewarding and enjoyable listening experience.