Ives: Piano Sonata No. 2 & Violin Sonata No. 4

Charles Ives, an avant-garde composer known for his innovative and often unconventional approach to music, presents a captivating collection of works in his album "Ives: Piano Sonata No. 2 & Violin Sonata No. 4." Released on September 1, 2017, under the BIS label, this album offers a unique blend of classical and contemporary styles, showcasing Ives' distinctive compositional voice.

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, titled "Children's Day at the Camp Meeting." The Piano Sonata No. 2 is a four-movement piece inspired by the transcendentalist philosophers and writers of Concord, Massachusetts, including Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nathaniel Hawthorne, the Alcotts, and Henry David Thoreau. Each movement is named after one of these figures, reflecting Ives' admiration for their ideas and influence.

In contrast, the Violin Sonata No. 4 is a more intimate and personal work, composed just before Ives began his intensive work on the Concord Sonata. This three-movement piece is characterized by its lyrical melodies and expressive harmonies, offering a glimpse into Ives' more introspective side.

Performed by the talented Pekka Kuusisto on violin and Joonas Ahonen on piano, this album is a testament to the enduring appeal of Ives' music. The duo's sensitive interpretations bring out the nuances and complexities of Ives' compositions, making this album a must-listen for fans of classical and contemporary music alike. With a total runtime of 58 minutes, this album is a compelling exploration of Ives' musical genius, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience.

Charles Ives, born in Danbury, Connecticut in 1874, is celebrated as one of America's most innovative and original composers. A pioneer of experimental music, Ives' compositions often incorporated polytonality, polyrhythm, and tone clusters, techniques that were far ahead of their time and anticipated many musical innovations of the 20th century. Despite his groundbreaking work, Ives' music was largely overlooked during his early career, and many of his pieces went unperformed for years. It was only later in life that his genius was recognized, thanks to the efforts of contemporaries like Henry Cowell and Lou Harrison. Ives' unique style blended elements of American popular music, church music traditions, and European art music, creating a sound that was distinctly his own. By day, Ives was a successful actuary and businessman, but by night, he composed some of the most influential and experimental music of his era. His legacy as a trailblazer in American music is undeniable, and his compositions continue to inspire and challenge musicians and audiences alike.