Debussy composed this cycle and other masterful late works in the summer of 1915. He had withdrawn to a country house near Dieppe with his family and composed with fevered concentration. The self-critical composerwas very proud of his Études: I confess that I am pleased to have created a work which false vanity aside will occupy a special niche. In point of technique these Études will usefully preparepianists for a better understanding of the fact that the portals of music can only be opened with formidable hands . Debussy s Études are today a milestone along the path of those desirous of becomingconcert pianists.
