Daniel Barenboim: Debussy

Daniel Barenboim celebrates the legacy of Claude Debussy, whom he extols as “the artist of illusion,” with his first album devoted to the composer’s piano music. His interpretations are enriched by a profound knowledge of Debussy’s orchestral works, which Barenboim explored intensively as principal conductor of the Paris Orchestra. Here, using wholly pianistic means, he creates an imaginary orchestra with the subtle colors of pieces including Estampes and Book I of the Preludes. Barenboim says, “Without Debussy, the 20th century could not exist.”