Don’t let this music make you feel sad, for that is not why it was composed. Satie lived in tiny apartments in Paris and had little or no money for most of his life. Nevertheless, he spent his days visiting friends, socialising and drinking (heavily) in Paris’ cabarets and cafés, annoying and confusing people he disliked (which he found very amusing), and generally doing as he pleased. He had strange habits and interests, always dressed impeccably, and changed his outlook on politics, religion and music constantly. Despite his unusual life, he was happy, and had all he needed or wanted: The company of friends, the love of music and art (and the opportunity to discuss them) and alcohol. Satie died of cirhossis of the liver after a life in which he had never become one of the ‘great’ composers. However, the impact he had on his friends and contemporaries (including Debussy, Picasso, Cocteau and Ravel) was massive. Make no mistake, his legacy is still seen today. He revolutionised an understanding and usage of tonality and harmony that inspired a new school of French composers. Aspects of his outlook on life and some of his unusual mannerisms were later realised in Dadaism. So do not despair at hearing this music, and do not attach it to the struggles of life. It was written from a place of contentedness, friendship, and inspiration. No matter how difficult your situation is, whether you can change it or not, enjoy the parts of life that make us feel. Create your own special legacy, with whatever you have before you.
Songs ~ Gymnopedies #1 ~ Gnossiennes #1,3,4,5 ~ Album ~ Satie: Works For Piano Solo And Piano Duet ~ Artist ~ Pianist: Anne Queffelec ~ with artwork by Edouard Leon Cortes Tracks: 0:00 Gymnopedies #1 3:32 Gnossiennes #1 6:52 Gnossiennes #3 9:33 Gnossiennes #4 11:52 Gnossiennes #5
1EarthUnited 