Dive into the avant-garde genius of Charles Ives with "Varied Air," a captivating collection of his most innovative and thought-provoking compositions. Released on April 1, 2013, this album is a testament to Ives' unique musical vision, blending classical structures with experimental techniques that push the boundaries of traditional piano music.
Spanning over two hours, "Varied Air" features a diverse array of works, from the intricate and evocative "Concord Sonata" to the playful and whimsical "Set of 5 Take-offs." The album includes iconic pieces such as the "Piano Sonata No. 2" and "Piano Sonata No. 1," showcasing Ives' mastery of form and his ability to weave complex narratives through sound. Alongside these monumental works, the album also presents shorter, equally compelling pieces like "Waltz-Rondo" and a series of insightful studies and take-offs that highlight Ives' experimental spirit.
Charles Ives, often hailed as one of America's most original composers, challenges listeners with his unconventional harmonies and rhythmic complexities. "Varied Air" is a journey through Ives' musical landscape, where each note and chord progression tells a story of innovation and artistic daring. Whether you're a seasoned fan of avant-garde music or a curious newcomer, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that celebrates the genius of Charles Ives.
2013 Metier2013 Metier
Tracks
Piano Sonata No. 2, "Concord, Mass., 1840-60", "Concord Sonata": I. EmersonCharles Ives, Philip Mead
Piano Sonata No. 2, "Concord, Mass., 1840-60", "Concord Sonata": II. HawthorneCharles Ives, Philip Mead
Piano Sonata No. 2, "Concord, Mass., 1840-60", "Concord Sonata": III. The AlcottsCharles Ives, Philip Mead
Piano Sonata No. 2, "Concord, Mass., 1840-60", "Concord Sonata": IV. ThoreauCharles Ives, Philip Mead
3-Page SonataCharles Ives, Philip Mead
Study No. 2Charles Ives, Philip Mead
Study No. 9Charles Ives, Philip Mead
Waltz-RondoCharles Ives, Philip Mead
Piano Sonata No. 1: I. Adagio con moto - Allegro con moto - Allegro risoluto - Adagio cantabileCharles Ives, Philip Mead
Piano Sonata No. 1: IIa. Allegro moderato - Andante -Charles Ives, Philip Mead
Piano Sonata No. 1: IIb. Allegro - Meno mosso con moto, "In the Inn"Charles Ives, Philip Mead
Piano Sonata No. 1: III. Largo - Allegro - LargoCharles Ives, Philip Mead
Piano Sonata No. 1: IVa. [—]Charles Ives, Philip Mead
Piano Sonata No. 1: IVb. Allegro - Presto - SlowCharles Ives, Philip Mead
Piano Sonata No. 1: V. Andante maestoso - Adagio cantabile - Allegro - AndanteCharles Ives, Philip Mead
Study No. 20Charles Ives, Philip Mead
Study No. 21Charles Ives, Philip Mead
Study No. 22Charles Ives, Philip Mead
Study No. 23Charles Ives, Philip Mead
Set of 5 Take-offs: No. 1. The Seen and Unseen?Charles Ives, Philip Mead
Set of 5 Take-offs: No. 2. Rough and Ready et al and / or The Jumping FrogCharles Ives, Philip Mead
Set of 5 Take-offs: No. 3. Song without (good) Words / The Good and the Bad (new and old)Charles Ives, Philip Mead
Set of 5 Take-offs: No. 4. Scene EpisodeCharles Ives, Philip Mead
Set of 5 Take-offs: No. 5. Bad Resolutions and Good WAN!Charles Ives, Philip Mead