Claude Debussy

Achille-Claude Debussy was a French composer born in 1862 in Saint-Germain-en-Laye. He studied at the Paris Conservatoire and became a leading figure in Impressionist music. His works broke from traditional forms, emphasizing atmosphere, tone color, and fluid harmony. Major compositions include Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune, the opera Pelléas et Mélisande, and the piano suite Suite bergamasque containing Clair de lune. He influenced generations of 20th-century composers across classical, jazz, and film music. Debussy died in Paris in 1918.