Ives: Piano Sonata No. 2 “Concord, Mass., 1840–1860” • The St. Gaudens

Charles Ives' "Ives: Piano Sonata No. 2 'Concord, Mass., 1840–1860' • The St. Gaudens ('Black March')" is a captivating exploration of avant-garde classical music, released on AVIE Records in May 2024. This album, performed by Donald Berman, offers a unique and thought-provoking listening experience that showcases Ives' innovative compositional style.

The album opens with "The St. Gaudens ('Black March')," a poignant piece that sets the tone for the rest of the collection. The centerpiece of the album is the monumental Piano Sonata No. 2, also known as the "Concord Sonata." This four-movement work is a tribute to 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, and the sonata as a whole is a profound meditation on their ideas and the spirit of their time.

With a total runtime of just over 52 minutes, this album is a substantial and immersive journey through Ives' musical landscape. The avant-garde nature of the compositions makes for a challenging yet rewarding listen, as Ives' unique harmonic language and complex structures push the boundaries of traditional classical music. Donald Berman's masterful performance brings out the depth and nuance of these pieces, making this album a standout in the world of contemporary classical music.

Whether you're a seasoned fan of avant-garde classical music or a curious newcomer looking to explore the genre, this album offers a compelling and intellectually stimulating experience. Don't miss the chance to delve into the rich and complex world of Charles Ives with this remarkable collection of works.