[Impressionist Music] A Selection of Classical Works That Evoke the Japanese Spirit

In the late 19th century, a new school of classical music known as Impressionism emerged, developed chiefly by French composers such as Claude Debussy and Maurice Ravel.

Among the music born during the Impressionist era, there are several works that were composed under the influence of Japan and Japanese paintings.

There are also Japanese composers who left works that evoke the spirit of Impressionism.

In this feature, we’ll highlight Impressionist works that have some connection to Japan, as well as pieces by Japanese composers influenced by Impressionism.

We’ll introduce them along with stories about the background of the pieces and the composers’ ties to Japan.