Thesis (M.A.)--University of Wisconsin--Madison, 1973. / eContent provider-neutral record in process. Description based on print version record. Includes bibliographical references.

Erik Satie (1866-1925), who lived between the 19th century and the 20th century, was well known for his eccentric character and always gave his works odd titles that seemed almost derisive and ridiculous. With unique and creative ideas, Satie eagerly led the French composers to escape the constraint of Romanticism and Impressionism, and did a lot to promote the formation of music style in France after World War I. Created with simplicity and the pure idea, his works make him play an important role in the music history. Based on Satie's works of piano duets, this study mainly investigates the space usage in music works. To do so, this essay is divided into three parts. First of all, the first part discusses his creation background and explores his educational background as well as his unique personality. In addition, the second part introduces the creation background of these three sets of piano duets. At last, the third part tries to illustrate the space usage in music works with these three piano duets in terms of texture, forms, rhythm, dynamics, tonality, expression marks and borrowed melody.