Debussy is my favourite classical composer bar none.
When I was taking piano lessons in my early teens, I had got accustomed to the idea that pieces that sounded fantastic on the piano must of necessity require a lot of practice and technical skill in order to play them. When my piano teacher introduced me to Debussy via Claire de Lune, I was astonished to discover that music did not have to be difficult to be beautiful. I'm not saying I could play it right through on first or second attempt, but actually getting the notes right was a much easier proposition than, say, Mozart or Chopin.
I think my favourite pieces were La Cathedrale Engloutie, Ballade, Reflets dans l'Eau, and Hommage a Rameau - but C de L is right up there too.
For orchestral works, I particularly love Iberia, with its evocation of the atmosphere of old Spain.
It's worth seeking out his piano preludes, of which there are two books, and two corresponding CD releases.
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