Gabriel Fauré (1845?1924) enriched the literature of the piano with freshly melodic, elegantly wrought compositions that embody the aristocratic qualities of the French tradition. This superbly produced volume brings together in one authoritative playing edition one of the most important segments of his works for piano: all of his nine Preludes, five Impromptus, and four Valses-Caprices.

Each of these distinctive compositions, so often heard today in concert and recital halls around the world and frequently recorded by leading pianists, reveal Fauré's lyrical melodic gifts and innovative harmonies and the classical qualities of clarity, balance, and serenity characteristic of his work.

Pianists of intermediate and advanced skills will find in these richly varied compositions ? unavailable elsewhere in one volume ? a unique opportunity to explore the elegant artistry of one of the most gifted and influential composers of the French school. Music lovers at every level of accomplishment will discover in this well-made, yet inexpensive edition a most satisfying way to savor fine music: to follow phrase by phrase, music in hand, a live or recorded performance.