An etude is a short musical composition designed to develop a specific skill or technique in a performer. Often used in the context of piano music, etudes focus on particular challenges, such as finger dexterity or expressive playing. Composers like Frédéric Chopin and Claude Debussy are well-known for their etudes, which are both technically demanding and artistically rich. In addition to music, the term "etude" can also refer to a study or exercise in other art forms, such as dance or visual arts. These studies help artists refine their skills and explore new ideas, often serving as a foundation for more complex works.