Debussy_Petite Suite; Four Hands Piano

[gvans]

Debussy's Petite Suite from July, 2016; La Jolla Library, La Jolla, California.
Erica Poole/Glenn Vanstrum, pianists.   

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Written from 1886-1889, after Debussy won the Paris Conservatoire's Prix de Rome and spent two unhappy years in Italy, this composition for piano four hands was first performed by the composer and Jacques Durand (of the publishing house) in 1889 at a salon in Paris. Each of the pieces is in ternary form, ABA.

The first, En bateau (In the Boat) is a barcarolle, a Venetian gondolier song based on an erotic poem by Paul Verlaine. The second, Cortege (Procession), is also based on a bawdy Verlaine poem, a musing about a lady's pet monkey and her attendant, both peering under her dress. Ah, Verlaine! Minuet, a neo-Classical work, forms the magical core of the suite, hinting at the compositional mastery Debussy will display in years to come. The finale, Ballet, is a rollicking dance.

I. En bateau: Andantino
II. Cortege: Moderato
III. Menuet: Moderato
IV. Ballet: Allegro giusto

[piulento]

I really like that suite, and it always looked like such a fun piece to play with someone. You're so lucky!

[gvans]

Yes, we are lucky to play together. It's always like that with chamber music--when the ensemble clicks, it's a wonderful feeling. Piano Four Hands is tricky, though, since you need to coordinate hand position and note releases. Worth every bit of effort, though.

[rachfan]

Hi gvans,

This was the first time I've heard Debussy's "Petite Suite".  You and your piano partner Erica Poole did a marvelous job.  Music for four hands has it's own challenges.  I believe that you were able to bring out its many colors.  You certainly satisfied your live audience too.  Thanks for sharing here this very interesting work of Debussy.

David   

[gvans]

Thanks, David. The Petite Suite reminds one of the Debussy Piano Trio, both written before he really got his ethereal Impressionistic groove going. Still, the mark of his genius is ever-present.