What makes Méreaux's set of 60 piano etudes one of the most ambitious and virtuosic in the entire history of the genre? Learn!
Jean-Amédée Lefroid de Méreaux's "Grandes études en 60 caprices" is a monumental cycle of piano studies, opus 63, published between 1837 and 1838. They are considered some of the most difficult études ever written, predating and arguably inspiring the more famous transcendental études of Liszt. The collection is divided into two styles: "dans le style libre" (in the free style) and "dans le style sévère" (in the strict style), exploring a vast range of technical and musical challenges. Each étude is a characteristic caprice, often with a descriptive title, pushing the boundaries of piano technique and Romantic expression.