Ives: Symphonies Nos. 3 & 4, The Unanswered Question & Central Park in the Dark

Dive into the avant-garde genius of Charles Ives with this captivating album, released on January 8, 2016, by Seattle Symphony Media. This collection showcases Ives' masterful compositions, including his Symphonies No. 3 and 4, along with two of his most cherished short orchestral works, "The Unanswered Question" and "Central Park in the Dark." Recorded with audiophile standards, this album offers a pristine listening experience that highlights Ives' innovative and groundbreaking style.

Symphony No. 4, edited by T. Brodhead, is a four-movement work that begins with a majestic prelude, followed by a playful comedy, a intricate fugue, and a grand finale. Symphony No. 3, titled "Camp Meeting," is a three-movement piece that evokes the spirit of rural American life with its lively and evocative themes. "The Unanswered Question," initially composed in 1908 and revised in 1930-35, is one of Ives' most famous works, featuring a haunting string quartet and solo trumpet. "Central Park in the Dark," composed around the same time, is a nocturnal piece that captures the essence of New York City's Central Park after sundown.

This album is a testament to Charles Ives' enduring influence on American music, offering a rich and diverse exploration of his unique compositional voice. Whether you're a longtime fan of Ives or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to impress with its technical brilliance and emotional depth.