Debussy, First Arabesque, Piano Solo (animation ver. 2)

First Arabesque, by Claude Debussy, performed by Stephen Malinowski, accompanied by an animated score.
FAQ

Q: Where can I get this recording?
A: It's available in a lot of places, including:

Q: Where can I get free sheet music for this piece?
A: Here:

Q: I'd like to learn the piano; do you have any advice for me?
A: I've put some suggestions here:

Q: What piano are you using?
A: Sorry, I don't remember. It is probably one of these (most to least likely):
ILIO Ivory II Italian Grand
Acoustica Pianissimo
GigaStudio GigaPiano-II

Q: Can you please do a video of ________?
A: Please see:

Q: I appreciate your work; how can I support it?
A: There are several ways:
free: like, subscribe, spread the word

Q: I don't like this version of the animation ...
A: I've posted several versions; see if you like any of these better:

Q: Who is Debussy?
A: A French composer; you can read about him here:

[redmanish]

I love this version. It doesn't rush like some others. It lets you really sink into the runs.

[marlboromusicmonster]

Between you and I, fellow Debussy fans, this song helped prevent me from committing suicide. Idk if anyone will ever understand the impact this video has had on my life. But I'm here. Peace and love to you all.

[zalkin]

I'm still coming back to this video 10+ years later, it has to be in my top 10 all time music related videos. Great rendition, perfect flow and soothing visuals. Absolutely perfect!

[mikotondria]

This IS my favorite interpretation of this, you nailed the tempo and the dynamics, and let it breathe. Too many (understandably) play this with brightness and gusto, but you light this with a Northern European Autumnal morning, many of the characters overheard rather than shouting their wares front and center; we observe this act rather than being forced to ride pillion. In effect, you've emptied this piece of your own personality and in the most reverential way bought the genius of the young Debussy into focus. I can feel his smile across the illusion of the ages - he's right here with us in the magic and inexplicable wonder that he bequeathed us. Thank you.

[micahhhb]

I found this song recently and fell in love with this version of it. my grandma passed away yesterday and this song has been my peace in the midst of it all. even 14 years late, thank you.

[justinlonesome]

All these years later, I STILL come back to this video as my favorite interpretation of this song. All the tempos and dynamics feed into one another to create a truly immersive experience. The little arpeggios like at 1:19 are just wonderful. This piece MOVES like water you can feel the ebb and flow in this rendition.The push and pull of love and relationships.

[ImUnforgettable]

i typically don't cry or even really get emotional when listening to music, but i can easily say that this performance not only made me tear up, but it made me vulnerable in a way that i have never felt before. i can't tell you enough how incredible this performance is, and you're such an inspiration for me. i have been trying to perfect this song for a few months now and i've been feeling kind of frustrated lately, but this beautiful rendition has definitely motivated me, so i really appreciate that. thank you for making such beautiful music with a wonderful visual to match!

[RIXRADvidz]

you know you've created a quality work when 9 years later people are still enthusiastic with the compliments. timeless music and timeless imagery the makings of greatness.

[razzmaster]

This is the most relaxed, smooth, light, and oneiric rendition of this piece I've ever heard. I think this is what Debussy would have wanted it to sound like. This is supremely enjoyable - thank you so much

[randomgamingstuff]

I'm still watching in 2020, 10 years later and it's still the best arabesque I've ever heard

[artin]

Your rendition, along with the wonderful animation, have been a sort of safe haven that I have often returned to over the years. I found it accidentally after searching for Clair de Lune. Since then, I've listened to many versions but none had a more soothing pace than this one. It calms me down to a point where I've even gotten rid of headaches listening to this video. You have created something truly wonderful that, I believe, is very valuable to many listeners on here. Thank you!

[veronicao]

As a nurse, my job can be highly stressful. But I just watched this on my break and it was so soothing it reset me. Thank you for such a beautiful animation on a lovely, well-played piece 👏

[ChrisDK]

Discovered this version 8 years ago and I still listen to it weekly. Really love this rendition, so beautiful.

[EddyOfTheMaelstrom]

Best recording of this piece in existence. Your pacing and phrasing are unmatched in any other I can find.

[toymachine]

I have been searching for this particular video for nearly a decade. I am very happy.

[RalphDratman]

I have not found a performance that I like as much as yours, Stephen. No one else plays the piece as a single stream, flowing from start to finish. Your approach has patience, modesty and restraint. I feel a sense of wonder like that of a child in lovely, horse-drawn, early 20th century Paris.

[jcbsrm]

this rendition is so good. it is so much refreshing, emotional (without any kind of exaggeration) and touches so softly. Loved it.

[waxxiesshack]

Over the years since this was posted, I keep coming back. Truly, one of the best musical animations ever. So well done!

[euclidclack]

at some points it makes me smile and others it nearly brings tears to my eyes

[abriellewright]

I've been listening to this version since 2011.. still amazing every time