Composer

:

Claude Debussy

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Prelude

Compose Date

:

1909

Average_duration

:

4:16

"Des pas sur la neige" is a solo piano piece composed by Claude Debussy in 1909. It is the sixth piece in his first book of preludes, which was published in 1910. The piece is also known as "Footprints in the Snow" in English. The piece is in the key of D-flat major and is marked "très doux et mélancolique" (very sweet and melancholic). It is a slow and contemplative piece, with a simple and repetitive melody that is reminiscent of footsteps in the snow. The piece is characterized by its use of pedal, which creates a sustained and ethereal sound. The piece is divided into three main sections. The first section is marked "très calme" (very calm) and features the main melody played in the right hand, accompanied by a simple chord progression in the left hand. The second section is marked "un peu plus lent" (a little slower) and features a variation of the main melody, played in the left hand. The third section is marked "calme" (calm) and features a return to the original melody, played in the right hand. "Des pas sur la neige" premiered on December 15, 1910, at the Salle Érard in Paris, performed by the composer himself. The piece is considered to be one of Debussy's most evocative and atmospheric works, capturing the stillness and beauty of a winter landscape. It is often performed as a standalone piece and has been arranged for various instruments, including orchestra and guitar.

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