definitions for each
Claude Debussy
Maurice Ravel
Neoclassical
Pointillism
Claude Debussy: Claude Debussy was a French composer born in 1862 and is considered one of the most influential figures in the development of Impressionist music. He is best known for his innovative use of harmony, timbre, and musical form, which challenged traditional classical conventions. His compositions often evoke imagery and create atmospheric and dreamlike sounds.
Maurice Ravel: Maurice Ravel was a French composer born in 1875 and is known for his craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail in his compositions. He was influenced by a wide range of musical styles, including Impressionism, Baroque, and jazz. Ravel's music often displays a blend of clarity and complexity, and he is revered for his use of color and orchestration.
Neoclassical: Neoclassical refers to a movement in music that emerged in the early 20th century. It sought to return to classical principles of balance, clarity, and structure, drawing inspiration from the music of the Baroque and Classical periods. Neoclassical composers often incorporated elements of traditional forms and techniques while adding a modern twist, resulting in a fusion of old and new musical ideas.
Pointillism: Pointillism, in the context of music, refers to a style of composition that involves using individual small musical fragments or "musical points" that are repeated or varied throughout a composition. Just like in the visual arts movement of pointillism, which uses dots of pure color to create images, pointillistic composers create musical textures by layering and juxtaposing these individual musical fragments. The result is a complex and intricate sound that can create a sense of tension or ambience.