The French composer Henri Dutilleux, although individual in his approach, nevertheless follows the traditions of Ravel and Debussy, seeking clarity and economy in his musical language and an enjoyment of varied timbres.
Orchestral Music
In his two symphonies Dutilleux explores novel combinations of sound, in the first contrasting groups and single instruments and in the second dividing the orchestra into a smaller chamber group, separate from the larger body. His Métaboles of 1964 allows a gradual emergence of thematic material, as, in a measure, does Tout un monde lointain…, a work for cello and orchestra written between 1968 and 1970.
Chamber and Piano Music
Similar qualities are to be heard in the chamber music of Dutilleux, notably in the string quartet of 1976 Thus the Night and other works with idiomatic use of wind instruments. His piano music includes a number of miniatures.