Doctor Gradus ad Parnassum

The title "Gradus ad Parnassum," which is used here for the "Doctor," means "Steps to Parnassus" and was the title of a collection of etudes by Clementi. Mount Parnassus, an actual highest peak in Greece, is believed in mythology to be the dwelling place of the Muses, goddesses of the arts.

This piece is generally interpreted as depicting a daughter bored with finger exercises, or as a satire on tedious finger practice. This interpretation is likely influenced by Debussy's own words: "This is an exercise for health and improvement. It should be played daily before breakfast, first modéré (moderately), and then animé (lively) once accustomed." However, given that these words were written in response to a letter from the publisher Durand inquiring about the tempo, which was not indicated in the autograph manuscript, it seems more natural to interpret them as Debussy's characteristic wit. Furthermore, it should be emphasized here that Clementi's actual "Gradus" is a comprehensive pedagogical work that goes beyond mere mechanical exercises, including pieces focused on expression (such as No. 39, "Scena patetica") and even fugues.

The piece bears a striking resemblance in its writing style and mood not so much to Clementi, but rather to the first piece of "25 Melodious Etudes," Op. 45, by Stephen Heller, a composer said to have influenced the young Debussy. Unlike the quotation of "Tristan" in "Golliwogg's Cakewalk," there is no direct evidence to suggest this is a borrowing from Heller. However, considering that Heller's etude collection itself was known in France at the time, and that the same melody appears, albeit possibly by coincidence, it cannot be entirely dismissed.

Heller: 25 Melodious Etudes, Op. 45, No. 1, opening

Doctor Gradus ad Parnassum, mm. 3-5

(The same melody as Heller appears in the left hand)

Heller: 25 Melodious Etudes, Op. 45, No. 1, mm. 9-11

Doctor Gradus ad Parnassum, mm. 63-65