Satie's representative early works. Each of the three pieces has a distinct theme:

• No. 1: Lent et douloureux (Slow and sorrowful)
• No. 2: Lent et triste (Slow and sad)
• No. 3: Lent et grave (Slow and solemn)

All three pieces are composed solely of long notes (quarter notes or longer), and their slow triple meter creates a very simple impression. They differ from compositions with a logical structure based on functional harmony or counterpoint. Characteristic features include the consistent repetition of identical patterns, reminiscent of later minimalist music, and unique melodies that are neither clearly major nor minor. At the time, Nos. 1 and 3 were orchestrated by Debussy, and to this day, various artists continue to arrange them in the worlds of pop and jazz.

The title "Gymnopédie" is derived from an ancient Greek festival honoring the gods (Gymnopaidia = naked dance). This festival was a violent event where people would become boisterous and excited from alcohol, even leading to many deaths. However, Satie drew his musical inspiration from an ancient vase depicting the Gymnopaidia in a quiet, serene manner, which is why the pieces remain slow and tranquil throughout. This might have been a characteristic idea of the young Satie, who disliked the conservative atmosphere of the music world at the time, and can be perceived as either humorous or ironic.