Satie, Erik – Gymnopedie No. 1

Learn to Play Gymnopedie No. 1, by Erik Satie

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The French composer and pianist Erik Satie was born in France on May 17th, 1866. He's known worldwide as one of the most influential composers of the early 20th century.

Satie began studying piano as a child and attended the Conservatory of Music in Paris.  The school was home to major composers such as Gabriel Faure and George Bizet. 

He didn't complete his studies and had little interest in improving as a pianist.  His teachers said his talent was in written composition.  But when he was 40, he returned and graduated top of his class. 

His work influenced Claude Debussy, Maurice Ravel, and “Les Six”. Les Six were young French composers whom Erik Satie mentored.  All went on to find success and become composers of note. 

Erik Satie wrote compositions in several different styles. His Gymnopedies and Gnossiennes are well-known piano pieces. He wrote for ballets, salon music, and religious events. Satie collaborated with Jean Cocteau and Pablo Picasso, both notable artists. Their ballet Parade marked a special moment in Satie’s career.

Satie’s musical ideas included what he called “Furniture Music”. This is music written to be in the background.  Neither the piece nor the musician should be the center of attention. American composer John Cage found inspiration here for his Avante-Garde work.

Erik Satie wrote music that has a magical way of evoking feelings and emotions from listeners.  Many pianists and keyboard players, including beginners, purchase his music because it sounds slow and 'easy' to play.  This shows the genius of his compositions.  

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