I sort of expected the museum to reflect the personality of Eric Satie and it did. It is an unusual experience and in its way quite refreshing as it is slightly off beat and all the better for that. You learn quite a bit about the man and his music as well as hearing plenty of it as you go around the museum. Not sure why but I was completely captivated by the automatic piano playing a series of pieces by him.

You need to know something of Satie besides his music to have any chance of understanding this museum. This is not a place to learn about him from the beginning. It also helps to know French. There is an English audio guide, but written explanations of exhibits are only in French. You won’t get the full experience otherwise. The museum fits the man’s personality. Or the myth of the man. It will be interesting if you are a fan. If not, you’ll be scratching your head. The player piano was spooky. That was my favorite part.

This museum is very strange, which suits the man it's an homage to! Before you go you should read a bit about Eric Satie and his time. Besides you might profit from a couple of audio excerpts of his works. Don't go in without an audio guide or you'll be lost in space. There are a couple of exhibits which you can touch and work, such as a merry-go-round that you can mount and which you have to power yourself like a bicycle. If you do that you'l see Satie's unplayable instruments such as the dictionary accordion. Take enough time to imbibe the atmosphere. Best to visit in bad weather as many rooms are dark anyway.