Composer

:

Claude Debussy

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Character Piece

Compose Date

:

1907

Average_duration

:

5:19

Claude Debussy's 'Et la lune descend sur le temple qui fût' is a musical composition for solo piano. It was composed in 1909 and premiered on January 27, 1910, at the Salle Érard in Paris. The piece is part of a larger collection of preludes for piano, which Debussy composed between 1909 and 1913. 'Et la lune descend sur le temple qui fût' is the second prelude in the first book of Debussy's preludes. The title translates to 'And the moon descends on the temple that was.' The piece is characterized by its dreamy, impressionistic style, which is typical of Debussy's music. The prelude is in the key of C-sharp minor and is marked 'Très lent' (very slow). It is divided into three sections, each with its own distinct character. The first section features a haunting melody in the right hand, accompanied by a simple, repetitive pattern in the left hand. The second section is more agitated, with a faster tempo and more complex rhythms. The final section returns to the slow, dreamy mood of the opening, with the melody now played in the left hand and the right hand providing delicate, shimmering accompaniment. Overall, 'Et la lune descend sur le temple qui fût' is a beautiful and evocative piece of music that showcases Debussy's unique style and mastery of the piano. Its impressionistic harmonies and delicate textures create a sense of mystery and enchantment, making it a favorite among pianists and audiences alike.

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