Description
This composition, likely created around 1890, is part of a collection of Debussy's early works that, while distinct from the groundbreaking piano pieces of his later career, nonetheless introduce elements that hint at his evolving musical style. Despite their straightforward part-writing and harmonic simplicity, these pieces carry unique characteristics that presage Debussy's future innovations. It is puzzling that in 1905, Debussy criticized a new edition of this work, originally published in 1895, labeling it as “a meaningless thing, quickly written down, in a word: bad.” Today, however, this piece is recognized as exquisite salon music, showcasing melodic beauty and sophisticated piano techniques accessible to amateur musicians. Rêverie has become one of the most cherished piano works from Debussy's early repertoire, justifying its release as a Henle Urtext single edition.
