Dive into the avant-garde genius of Charles Ives with this captivating 1996 release, "Ives: 'Concord' Sonata & 3 Quarter-tone Pieces." This album is a testament to Ives' innovative spirit, featuring his monumental Piano Sonata No. 2, subtitled 'Concord, Mass., 1840-60,' a four-movement masterpiece inspired by the transcendentalist philosophers and writers of Concord, Massachusetts. Each movement is named after a prominent figure: Emerson, Hawthorne, The Alcotts, and Thoreau, offering a musical exploration of their ideas and legacies.
The album also showcases Ives' experimental side with the "3 Quarter-tone Pieces for 2 pianos," a collection that pushes the boundaries of traditional harmony and tuning. These pieces, with their unique quarter-tone intervals, provide a fascinating listen and a glimpse into Ives' pioneering approach to music.
Recorded and released under Warner Classics International, this album is a must for any fan of avant-garde music or those looking to explore the innovative works of Charles Ives. With a total runtime of 58 minutes, it's a substantial journey through the mind of one of America's most original composers.