This week we are
exploring Cubism in both art and music. On Monday we looked at Pablo Picasso as
an example of a Cubist painter. How do characteristics of Cubism find their way
into music?
Erik Satie is an
example of a composer who uses Cubism characteristics in his music. His 1917
ballet Parade provides the perfect
example of how a composer can portray Cubist ideas within a musical score. The
ballet is written by Jean Cocteau with choreography by Léonide Massine. In
order to depict the Cubist idea of overlapping fragments, Satie uses jazz
elements, a whistle, siren, and typewriter in his score. These features were
unheard of at this point in history and audiences did not respond well.
Here are a few excerpts
from Satie’s score to Parade. Notice
the costumes, set design, choreography, as well as music. Do you enjoy this
Cubist work?
