Echo’s van Satie (extra late night concert)

On 1 July 1925, Erik Satie, one of the most eccentric and unique figures in Paris around 1900, died. With compositions such as the Gymnopédies and Gnossiennes, he laid the foundations for later minimalism. Satie broke with traditions radically: idiosyncratic, poetic and always surprising. His 100th death anniversary is a good reason for Podium21 to pay tribute to this versatile and influential French composer. On Friday evening 11 July, shortly after Satie’s 100th death anniversary, organist Geerten van de Wetering and  Ensemble Klang will present a surprising programme in Echoes of Satie.

Echoes of Satie offers a renewed introduction to the music of Erik Satie. From the famous Gymnopédies and Gnossiennes to the lesser-known Messe de pauvres and smaller works: they can all be heard, in new arrangements and surprising combinations. The final piece of the evening is Satie’s Parade, in which organist and ensemble (literally) pull out all the stops. As a change from Satie’s work, some contemporary reflections inspired or influenced by his work will be heard.

In this programme, there is an emphatic role for the organ. For although Satie became known for his piano works, he also wrote a few works for organ. Moreover, he received his first music lessons from the local organist, played the harmonium in addition to the piano and voiced the organ in one of his piano works (Ogives).

Echoes of Satie takes place at the Waalse Kerk in The Hague. The Waalse Kerk houses a beautiful organ by the famous Parisian organ builder Aristide Cavaillé-Coll, who built dozens of organs in Paris in the 19th century, such as for Notre-Dame and Sacre-Coeur. Satie must have been familiar with the sounds of these organs.

In the intimate  Church visitors will imagine themselves in another world for a moment , the sound world of Satie: fresh, surprising and timeless. Get carried away in a world of simplicity, melancholy and unexpected beauty!