A beautiful, flowing introduction leads us into a magical fantasy. Sweet and tender, this is the first of Debussy's 'Deux Arabesques'. Written in E major and played at a slow tempo it gives a regal, emotional tone. Widely used in popular culture such as in TV themes and advertising. It has also been...
The second on Debussy's Arabesques is faster, brighter and more lively. Although the two works are usually put in the '20th Century' classical music period, they are now being increasingly seen as a separate impressionistic style popular with European composers.
Instantly recognisable, this beautiful work by Debussy is calm and soothing yet is intensely emotional in places. French for 'moonlight', this track is relaxing, reflective and simply delightful.
One of the most famous pieces of music for solo piano. Despite having the instruction, 'Lent et douloureux', (slow and painfully), this track is referred to for calm, relaxing and meditative purposes. Atmospheric and ambient.
Slow and grave, ('Lent et grave'), the third Gymnopodie is perhaps the most heartbreaking. The whole ambience is punctuated by mournful melodies that have become so popular in modern productions.
Gymnopodie No.2 has an aura of sombreness about it. 'Lent et triste', (slow and sad), is the instruction to the player. Very atmospheric with a feeling of calm resignation. Huge amounts of space in the composition for thoughtful reflection.
Slow, ('Lent' in French), and free-flowing, this track evokes an almost daydream like state. This is the first of three works to be given the name Gnossienne name by Erik Satie to reflect this new style of composition.
The third in a series of highly expressive and free-flowing compositions by Satie is again at a slow pace like the first one. This gives the track a sombre and hypnotic quality. Creates an almost haunting atmosphere.
A waltz for solo piano which conjures up images of Paris and popular song around 1900. The title translates into, 'I Want You', and reflects the sentimental nature of the track. A wonderful backdrop for European productions.