Composed for piano four-hands between 1888 and 1889, the Petite Suite is one of Debussy's early compositions. While Debussy had already shown individuality in the genre of vocal music at an early stage, his piano works from the same period had not yet fully broken free from traditional frameworks.

Nevertheless, this Petite Suite contains elements throughout that suggest a first step towards his later innovations. With its charming melodies and rhythms, and its approachable difficulty, it is particularly widely beloved among Debussy's four-hand pieces.

The Petite Suite has a deep connection with the 'Fêtes galantes' (elegant feasts), the graceful aristocratic gatherings favored by the 18th-century Rococo painter Watteau. Therefore, when performing this piece, it is important to cherish such an elegant, delicate, and light-hearted atmosphere.

Movements

It consists of the following four movements, all in compound ternary form with contrasting middle sections.

I. En Bateau (In a Boat)

It shares the same title as a poem in Paul Verlaine's (a famous French poet) collection Fêtes galantes. The melody flows gracefully and gently over wave-like arpeggios. Perform with an awareness of orchestral color.

II. Cortège (Procession)

Like the first movement, it shares the same title as a poem in Verlaine's collection Fêtes galantes. The poem describes attendants holding up the long dresses of noblewomen as they march, and the antics of mischievous pet monkeys. A piece with a light and joyful atmosphere.

III. Menuet

This movement incorporates a melody from Debussy's song Fêtes galantes (1882), which was composed using a poem by Théodore de Banville (a famous French poet). An elegant dance in a slow tempo.

IV. Ballet

The tempo often becomes rushed due to the off-beat rhythms, so it is essential to be mindful of the rests. A brilliant piece full of orchestral color.

The Petite Suite has been arranged for orchestra, for solo piano, and for various other instruments.