20th Annual Student Research Conference
Fine Arts
One Effect of Reality: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Understanding
Claude Debussy’s Musical Idiom
Cheryl C. Wong
Dr. David McKamie, Faculty Mentor
Claude Debussy (1862-1918) composed compelling and innovative music at the end of the 19th century, setting the stage for musical composition in the 20th century. Debussy’s mindset during his compositional process is revealed through an examination of his personal writings. Also, by means of an ontological approach to literary and philosophical influences, major themes of his musical idiom emerge. Debussy strived to portray reality through the idea of “open-air art,” thus connecting to the experience of a particular moment. This presentation, which will include a performance of “En Sourdine” from the Fetes Galantes suite, focuses on the musical translation of his metaphysical ideas.
Keywords: Debussy, 20th century music, ontological , philosophical, theory, Fetes Galantes, composition, En Sourdine
Topic(s):Music
Presentation Type: Performance Art
Session: 10-2
Location: OP 1393 (Performance Hall)
Time: 8:30 am