Textual Openness in Debussys Works from the Perspective of Performance Practice: A Discussion on the Diversity of Modern Interpretations

Abstract

Claude Debussy, as one of the most influential composers in French music history, is hailed as a pioneer of Impressionist music. He
composed a vast number of masterpieces spanning genres such as piano, orchestral, and opera works. Among these, Debussys Pour le piano,
a representative work from the middle period of his piano compositions, embodies a strong Impressionist style. This paper takes Pour le piano
as its object of study and explores its characteristics of textual openness from the perspective of performance practice. It analyzes how performers from different periods interpret the work, thereby revealing the trend of diversification in modern performances. Through a detailed
examination of the score and analysis of specific performance cases, the study finds that Debussy, through his unique musical language and
deliberately ambiguous performance indications, leaves considerable interpretative space for performers. This research not only contributes to
a deeper understanding of Debussys compositional philosophy but also provides theoretical insights into the development of modern interpretations of classical music.