Claude Debussy spent many years trapped in the sound of
Richard Wagner, as so many young, talented composers in his day were.
One story about his breakout concerns the Velvet Gentleman, Erik Satie. It is said that one day, Debussy heard a piece by the older Satie that contained chords like the ones we associate with Debussy today. Satie, upon seeing Debussy's, shall we say interest, withdrew from that direction, leaving Debussy a clear field.
Debussy has become known, in particular, for his piano compositions. One of the greatest is the Children's Corner, La boite a joujou.
It is inscribed a ma chere petite chouchou, avec les tendres regards do ton pere pour ce qui suit. "To my sweet little cabbage, with the tender regards of your father for what follows."
The tragedy is, she died before she could play it.