Claude Debussy

Claude Debussy was born in France in 1862. He loved to write music that felt like paintings you could hear. His songs often sound like water, clouds, or moonlight. Many people call his style impressionist music.

Early Years

Claude started learning piano when he was seven. He went to a famous music school in Paris when he was only 10. He won a big prize that let him study in Rome. But Claude liked to do things his own way and make new sounds.

Famous Music

One of his most loved pieces is called Clair de Lune, which means moonlight. He also wrote a piece about the sea called La Mer. His music used new chords that had never been used before. Many composers after him copied his ideas.

Fun Facts

• He loved cats and often had one sitting on his piano.
• His daughter's nickname was Chou-Chou and he wrote music for her.
• He did not like being called an impressionist composer.

Did You Know?

Debussy was inspired by music from Asia that he heard at a world's fair in Paris.