Paul Roberts' biography of Debussy was published in the UK and the USA by Phaidon Press in April 2008. Michael Church in the Independent (London) wrote:

'In his quest to unravel [the enigma of Debussy's life] Paul Roberts has aimed to win new insights into the music of which, as a concert pianist, he's a distinguished interpreter. He has succeeded, distilling a lifetime's reading, listening and thinking to create an intimate portrait that takes us nearer to the heart of that music than any biography before.' Click here to read the full review

'Roberts's previous Images: The Piano Music of Claude Debussy — a masterly, fascinating investigation of that repertoire's relationship to art and literature — was a hard act to follow in terms of scholarship and sheer readability. However, this new biography loses nothing in comparison. Indeed they must be seen as companion volumes... Roberts brings Debussy vividly to life — as often as not, uncomfortably so.' Andrew Green, Classical Music Magazine

'Paul Roberts meets the challenges of both person and music with empathy and acumen. [...] Generous quotations from letters and journalism support this elegantly written volume.' Roger Nichols, BBC Music Magazine Click here to read the full review

'I've just finished reading his beautiful book; it's like a good novel that I just couldn't put down.' Harold Gray, Artistic Director of Portland Piano International. For the full review go to Speaking of Pianists: Harold Gray's Blog

Click here for a preview of the preface

Reprint of Images

Images: The Piano Music of Claude Debussy is, by popular demand, back in print and can be obtained through Print on Demand at most music book shops within a week. Online it is most easily available via AbeBooks.co.uk or Amazon

This absorbing study relates the music to the cultural background of Paris at the dawn of the twentieth century. Chapter headings include 'Impressionist or Symbolist?', 'Three Japanese Prints: Estampes', 'Music and Painting', 'The Javanese Gamelan', 'Humour and Childhood', 'Debussy and Baudelaire'. Images has a wide canvas of reference, with an appeal that goes far beyond its starting point of piano music and pianism.

'An invaluable book for pianists and enthusiasts of French music in general.' Pamela Lidiard, Classical Music

'A meaningful, superbly presented, in-depth analysis of the French piano music of artist and visionary Claude Debussy.' John Taylor, Midwest Book Review

'I applaud his generously illustrated book, which is a significant contribution to our understanding of the literary and artistic influences on Debussy's piano works. This is a task that few pianists would be up to.' Charles Timbrell Fanfare (USA)

'Roberts's views are insightful and profound - an indispensable book for music lovers and pianists.' Rick MacMillan Classical Music Magazine (Canada)