Editor’s note: Arachnophonia (“Arachno” = spider / “-phonia” = sound) is a regular feature on our blog where members of the UR community can share their thoughts about resources from the Parsons Music Library‘s collection.
All links included in these posts will take you to either the library catalog record for the item in question or to additional relevant information from around the web.
Today’s installment of Arachnophonia is by student manager Julie (class of 2028) and features some of the works of French composer Erik Satie on vinyl. Thanks, Julie!
Parade, Relâche Ballets, and Gymnopédies
Erik Satie’s “Parade,” “Relâche,” and “Gymnopédies” are some of the most dynamically rich and musically innovative pieces I’ve had the pleasure of listening to. Prior to discovering this vinyl, I had heard some of Satie’s music before (mostly through social media) and had appreciated the atmospheric and slightly ambiguous nature of the chords; however, based on my experience with the “Gymnopédies,” the strongest feelings that came to mind while listening had been limited to “centered,” “surreal”, and maybe a little “unnerved.” After making my way through the tracks on the vinyl, however, I discovered a different side of Satie that captured my interest and inspired me to write this blog post!
“Parade,” performed by the Paris Conservatoire Orchestra and conducted by Louis Auriacombe is one of Satie’s later works, and is the original music created for the 1917 satirical ballet by the same name. In contrast to some of his earlier works of a more “minimalist” style, “Parade” features dynamic and emotional highs and lows that, at one point, had me literally jumping out of my seat. While I enjoyed trying to use “Parade” for studying, I found myself spending more time listening to it than I did doing anything else.
If I had to choose one word to describe Satie and his music, I would pick “moody.” I can’t say that I would necessarily recommend this vinyl to someone in need of cheering up, but I would absolutely send it in the direction of any music lover who’s interested in jumping on Satie’s musical roller coaster of emotions. If you end up listening, I hope you enjoy the ride!