Claude Debussy

Petit Negre

Le Petit Negre was originally composed by Claude Debussy (1862-1918) in 1909. The purpose was to write a great work that could also be played by children. Jan Merry made the piece even more accessible at the beginning of the 20th Century by arranging it for flute and piano. Le Petit Negre is marked Allegro and begins with a theme modelled on ragtime music, a style which was very popular at the time of composition. Jazz influences, the C major key signature, 2/4 meter and upbeat features make for an exciting and accessible piece for all flautists and pianists. Merry's arrangement of Debussy's Le Petit Negre is a thrilling addition to the repertoire.