The last years of the 19th Century in Paris were a time of great creativity and experimentation in the arts and music. One of the manifestations of this was a vibrant café and nightclub culture which combined music with other popular forms of entertainment. Erik Satie (1866-1925), the witty and innovative composer of the ever-popular Gymnopédies, was a figure who bridged the gap between classical music and the world of the cafe and the street. For instance, he was influenced by fast-changing technologies and by mechanical and street music. As the pianist at Le Chat Noir, the notorious nightclub in Montmartre, he was also a famous participant in the decadent world of the Demi-monde.
Caroline Potter is an author and lecturer. She has published widely on the subject of French music and was series advisor to the Philharmonia Orchestra’s Paris 2014-15 season. Her book, Erik Satie – A Parisian Composer and His World won the prestigious Sunday Times Book of the Year award for a title about classical music in 2016.
The event will be held from 6.30pm on Tuesday 25th February at Blacks Club, 67 Dean St, Soho, London W1D 4QH. The talk itself will commence promptly at 7.00pm, and should last about an hour.
Space at the event is strictly limited. RSVP in advance to info@rimbaudverlaine.org to reserve a place, indicating whether or not you are a Member of Blacks.
These will be allocated on a strictly first come, first served basis. Please reserve your place now to avoid disappointment!
The event will cost £10 per person on the door, payable to R&V either by cheque or in cash.