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Impressionism

A Short Guide for Pianists

Impressionism cover

Impressionism

A Short Guide for Pianists

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Pre-order. Available Aug 06 2026
$31.64 RRP $39.55 Website price saving $7.91 (20%)

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Description

Impressionist piano works are among the greatest in the repertoire – gain foundational insights with this guide, from history and cultural context to interpretation and performance.

Renowned pianist Paul Roberts seeks to answer the question “What is Impressionism in relation to piano music?” In highly accessible prose, he illuminates several connected topics to understand this beloved repertoire so that pianists can create the most vivid performances. An Impressionist technique of pianism, not unconnected to past traditions, serves a colorful, imaginative world that is wholly contemporary and wholly French – a period when music and painting were endlessly discussed.

How do we relate to this imaginative world, and what is required of us, technically and artistically? How does the pianist, whether amateur, student, or young professional, prepare an Impressionist piece or program?

Beginning with an overview of the period and an exploration of how the celebrated label became attached to the music of Claude Debussy and Maurice Ravel, this guide immerses us in their beloved piano masterpieces and explores the art of performance.

Table of Contents

1. Music and Painting
2. What is Style?
3. Playing Impressionism
4. Prints, Pictures, and Mirrors
5. Playing the Suites
6. Gaspard de la nuit
7. Preludes and Etudes
Index

Product details

Bloomsbury Academic Test
Published Aug 06 2026
Format Ebook (PDF)
Edition 1st
Extent 192
ISBN 9798765149256
Imprint Bloomsbury Academic
Illustrations 15 b/w illustrations
Series Short Guides to the Piano Repertoire
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing

About the contributors

Author

Paul Roberts

Paul Roberts is a British concert pianist and a le…

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