Everything Piano

Clair De Lune, Composed By Claude Debussy

Anyone who enjoys classical music would probably agree that one of the most beautiful piano compositions is Clair De Lune by Claude Debussy. Of his Suite Bergamasque, this is the third most famous piece. The piece gives reference to a bergamask, which is a clumsy dance performed by Bergamo natives.

The name of the piece literally translates from French as “moonlight.” As an experienced pianist, I know that this is a perfect title, considering the rolling notes and defined harmonies in the piece are meant to reflect images and the dancing of the moonlight.

The piece was actually the inspiration for the famous Disney song, “When You Wish Upon A Star,” and can be heard in various movies and other sources of promotional media. Two distinct examples I can think of are the recent teen-sensation movie, “Twilight,” as well as the Canadian television advertisement for the new Lexus RX450h. See it here on YouTube.

The piece is full of fingering technique. The sweeping hand and wrist movements, the modulations of intensity, the melodic and counter-melodic harmonies, and the crescendos and decrescendos in relation to the dynamics of the song are all qualities that make this piece what it truly is; amazing and completely timeless.

I am currently studying the piece, and within a few weeks, I hope to have mastered it entirely. For me, the hardest part is not learning or memorizing the notes. The technical parts and developing and interpreting my own way of moving my hands to reflect feeling will be the greatest challenge.

You can find Debussy’s Clair De Lune piano sheet music by clicking here.

Elise’s Musical Tip For The Day:

If you enjoy Debussy’s Clair De Lune and have some knowledge and experience of fingering technique, I would recommend learning this song. It’s not entirely difficult, and like I said, technique is the hardest part. The original piece is meant for late intermediate to early advanced piano players, or grade levels 4 to 6.