Claude Debussy 1862-1918

A symphony is usually built on a melody heard by the composer as a child.

The first section is the customary presentation of a theme on which the composer proposes to work; then begins the necessary dismemberment; the second section seems to take place in an experimental laboratory; the third section cheers up a little in a quite childish way, interspersed with deep sentimental phrases during which the melody recedes; but it reappears and the dismemberment goes on..

I am more and more convinced that music is not, in essence, a thing which can be cast into a traditional and fixed form. It is made up of colors and rhythms.. .


Claude Debussy