PlayPiano
The short answer
The composer was not Rêverie's greatest admirer. Rêverie is a character piece by Claude Debussy. PlayPiano puts it at Level 7, an estimate.
- character piece
- dreamy
- gentle
- broken chords
- voicing
History
In 1891 Debussy sold Rêverie with the Mazurka to two publishers. Its publication was delayed for unknown reasons, and the Choudens rights passed to Fromont in 1895. When Fromont issued the piece in 1905, Debussy criticised it in a letter.
Sources
What to listen for
Lower movement introduces the melody
The lower-staff introduction begins before the melody enters. Hear its flowing support as preparation for the longer upper line.
Rapid upper figures alternate with responses
Quicker upper figures receive related answers before a sparse transition. Follow the exchange without making every run a separate phrase.
Related closing figures become thinner
The closing figures recall earlier shapes while thinning toward the last gestures. Listen for the phrase’s remaining direction as the texture fades.
How to practise it
Separate the held bass from the gently moving support.
- Practise the figure softly, omitting attacks at each tie continuation.
- Hold the bass across both labels while adding the support softly.
- Connect the examined phrase at a comfortable tempo while keeping its stated layers and releases distinct.
How hard is it
The inspected opening places longer melody notes above continuing shorter accompaniment. The proposed level adds sustained control over the entire 101-label native edition, not just its opening.
About this piece
- Collection
- Small scenes, big imagination
- Licence
- CC0
- Source
- musescore.com
More by Claude Debussy
- The Little Shepherd, Children's Corner No. 5Level 5, estimatedWith Maestro
- Clair de lune, Suite bergamasque, L. 75Level 8, estimatedWith Maestro
- La cathédrale engloutie, Préludes I No. 10Level 8, estimatedWith Maestro
