Charles Ives, an avant-garde pioneer, invites you into his world with the release of "Ives: Piano Sonata No. 2 & Violin Sonata No. 4" on BIS Records. This captivating album, released on September 1, 2017, offers a unique journey through Ives' distinctive musical landscape.
The album features two of Ives' most notable works: the Piano Sonata No. 2, subtitled "Concord, Mass., 1840-60," and the Violin Sonata No. 4, also known as "Children's Day at the Camp Meeting." Each piece is a testament to Ives' innovative compositional style, blending traditional forms with groundbreaking techniques.
The Piano Sonata No. 2 is a four-movement exploration inspired by the transcendentalist philosophers and writers of Concord, Massachusetts. Each movement is named after a prominent figure: Emerson, Hawthorne, The Alcotts, and Thoreau. This sonata is a profound reflection of Ives' admiration for these intellectuals and their impact on American thought.
The Violin Sonata No. 4, on the other hand, is a lively and evocative piece that captures the spirit of a children's day at a camp meeting. The three movements—Allegro, Largo, and Allegro—paint a vivid musical picture of the joy and energy of the event.
With a total duration of 58 minutes, this album is a compact yet comprehensive introduction to Ives' avant-garde genius. Whether you're a seasoned fan of classical music or a curious newcomer, "Ives: Piano Sonata No. 2 & Violin Sonata No. 4" offers a compelling and enriching listening experience. Dive in and discover the timeless brilliance of Charles Ives.
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