étudies
An étude, pronounced "eh-TOOD," is a musical composition, typically instrumental, designed to provide practice material for a specific technical skill or to explore a particular musical idea. The term comes from the French word for "study." While often associated with virtuoso pieces, the primary purpose of an étude is didactic, serving as a tool for musicians to refine their technique and musicality.
The historical development of the étude can be traced back to the 18th century, but it gained
Later composers continued to explore the possibilities of the étude. Liszt's études are known for their dramatic