Claude Debussy ： Ballade slave F-Dur

This early piano work is notable for its lyrical melodies and colorful harmonic writing. The contrast between gently singing passages and sections in which rhythmic motion comes to the fore creates a natural sense of rise and fall throughout the piece. Performers should carefully shape the transitions between these episodes, bringing the main melody out from the inner voices and accompaniment with a soft, clear tone. Use the pedal to sustain the resonance without allowing it to become cloudy, and keep any tempo flexibility restrained and guided by the breathing of each phrase. Giving the smaller rhythmic movements a light touch helps bring out both the songful character and the dance-like momentum.