La Mer (the Sea): Three Symphonic Sketches

by Claude Debussy

"It may be in fact I have taken on a task that is too much for me; there is no precedent, so I'm obliged to invent new forms." — Claude Debussy
One of the most revolutionary and influential of modern composers, Claude Debussy (1862–1918) overturned traditional concepts of form, harmony, and instrumental color to create a unique body of music characterized by innovation, individuality of style, and perfection of workmanship.
Among his most popular, most performed, most recorded works is La Mer, a complex masterpiece comprising three symphonic "De l'aube à midi sur la mer" (From dawn to noon on the sea); "Jeux de vagues" (Play of waves); and "Dialogue du vent et de la mer" (Dialogue of the wind and sea).
This extraordinary work, full of light and shimmering shapes and colors, is published here in full score with bar-numbered movements. Ideal for study in the classroom, at home, or in the concert hall, this affordable, high-quality, conveniently sized volume will be the edition of choice from music students and music lovers alike.

Genres: Scores

144 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 1983

About the author

Claude-Achille Debussy (22 August 1862 – 25 March 1918) was a French composer. Along with Maurice Ravel, he was one of the most prominent figures associated with Impressionist music, though he himself disliked the term when applied to his compositions. He was made Chevalier of the Legion of Honour in his native France in 1903. Debussy was among the most influential composers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and his use of non-traditional scales and chromaticism influenced many composers who followed.

Debussy's music is noted for its sensory content and frequent usage of non-traditional tonalities. The prominent French literary style of his period was known as Symbolism, and this movement directly inspired Debussy both as a composer and as an active cultural participant.