Ives: Variations On America / Old Home Days / The Alcotts

Dive into the avant-garde world of Charles Ives with this captivating album, released on August 1, 2007, under the Naxos label. This collection, spanning 1 hour and 13 minutes, offers a unique blend of Ives' compositions, expertly arranged for wind ensemble by notable arrangers such as William Rhoads, John Sinclair, and others. The album features a variety of pieces, from marches and suites to symphonies and sonatas, showcasing Ives' innovative and often experimental approach to music.

Highlights include the "Variations on America," a creative reimagining of the patriotic tune, and the "Old Home Days Suite," which evokes nostalgic scenes of small-town America. The album also features the evocative "The Alcotts" from Ives' Piano Sonata No. 2, and a selection of marches that reflect Ives' upbringing amidst military music. Performed by the U.S. Marine Band, this album provides a rich and engaging exploration of Ives' unique musical vision. Whether you're a fan of avant-garde music or simply curious about Ives' distinctive style, this album offers a compelling journey through his diverse and influential body of work.