Impressionism in Music Overview

Originated in France during the late 19th century as a reaction against the Romantic style, emphasizing emotional expression.
Characterized by a focus on atmosphere, using tones and harmony rather than clear melodies and rhythmic lines.
Techniques include timbre, texture, harmony, and rhythm to convey messages subjectively.

Utilizes whole-tone scales, modal scales, and exotic scales, moving beyond conventional Western classifications.
Employs complex chords such as 9th chords, creating depth beyond basic triads.
Features ambiguous chord progressions and unresolved passages, fostering a sense of uncertainty.
Consists of unusual forms and irregular phrasing, breaking traditional musical structures.
Instrumental timbre is crucial for expressing color and meaning in compositions.

Born on August 22, 1862, in Saint-Germain-en-Laye, France.
Key figure in impressionism, credited with influencing 20th-century music.
Demonstrated musical talent early, entering the Conservatoire de Paris at age 11.
His travels, especially after meeting wealthy patron Nadezhda von Meck, shaped his sensitive style.
Most known for "Clair de Lune" and won the Grand Prix de Rome for "L’enfant prodigue."
Significant works include:
- "L’enfant prodigue" – for soprano, tenor, baritone, and orchestra.
- "Petite suite" – for piano.
- "String Quartet in G minor."
- "Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune" – a symphonic poem.
- "Pelléas et Mélisande" – an opera.
- "La Mer" – orchestral work.
Passed away on March 25, 1918, in Paris at age 55.

Born on March 7, 1875, in Ciboure, France, another leading figure in impressionism.
Entered the Conservatoire de Paris at 14 and was involved in the Prix de Rome competition, though he did not win.
Music adheres to contemporary norms but possesses personal nuances, similar to Debussy's work.
Known for using modal scales, added thirds to triads, and ambiguous progressions in compositions.
Important piano works include:
- "Jeux d'eau" (1901).
- "Miroirs" (1905).
- "Gaspard de la nuit" (1908).
- "Le Tombeau de Couperin" (1917).
- Two piano concertos.
Major orchestral contributions include "Rapsodie espagnole" and "Boléro."
Lived alone in the forests of Rambouillet, finding contentment in solitude.
Toured the U.S., Canada, and England in 1928, receiving an honorary music degree from Oxford University.
Suffered from aphasia in 1932, impacting communication but not his musical creativity.
Died on December 28, 1937, in Paris.