Composer

:

Erik Satie

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1908

Average_duration

:

0:48

'Désespoir agréable' is a solo piano piece composed by Erik Satie in 1914. The piece premiered on May 20, 1914, at the Salle Gaveau in Paris, performed by the pianist Ricardo Viñes. The piece consists of three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, marked "Très lent" (very slow), is characterized by its melancholic and introspective mood. The harmonies are dissonant and unresolved, creating a sense of unease and tension. The melody is sparse and fragmented, with long pauses between phrases. The second movement, marked "Assez lent" (quite slow), is more lively and playful than the first. The melody is more fluid and lyrical, with a sense of whimsy and humor. The harmonies are still dissonant, but they are resolved more frequently, creating a sense of release and resolution. The third and final movement, marked "Lent" (slow), returns to the introspective mood of the first movement. The melody is simple and repetitive, with a sense of resignation and acceptance. The harmonies are still dissonant, but they are resolved more frequently than in the first movement, creating a sense of closure and finality. Overall, 'Désespoir agréable' is a haunting and introspective piece that reflects Satie's unique style and approach to composition. The dissonant harmonies and sparse melodies create a sense of unease and tension, while the occasional moments of resolution and release provide a sense of hope and optimism. The piece is a testament to Satie's ability to create complex and nuanced music with minimal means, and it remains a beloved work in the piano repertoire to this day.

More....