Search - Ives, Thomas, Cgb :: Symphony 3 / Orchestral Set 2

Well Done, Well Played!

Matt Barger | Little Rock, AR | 01/20/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Another stunning recording by Micheal Tilson Thomas and the Concertgebouw Orchestra!! Sony has done a great job with thier series of recordings of Ives's music. I have been more than satisfied in owning this disc. Even those new to the sound and genius of Charles Ives can easily appreciate his third symphony. Unknown and unplayed for almost forty years, Ives 3rd Symphony was awarded a Nobel Prize in 1947. He promply sent his prize money back saying "prizes are for boys...". Who can blame him?!This work, completed in 1909, contains harmonies and melodic treatments that stand out as assuridly ahead of thier time. In true Ivesian fashion this symphony is meant to reflect the religous atmosphere of nineteenth centurey Connecticut including tent revivals, children's singing, and familular hymn tunes. Grown up in the "Bible Belt" or ever attended an old fashioned "sangin'"? If so, you are sure to delite in hearing tunes like 'What a Friend We Have in Jesus' and 'There is a Fountian Filled With Blood' treated with such depth and thematic variation. Throughout the 3rd Symphony there are at least five hymns represented. Each movement has an earthy American quality that is continually refreshing and exciting. The orchestra sparkles and weaves its way around the thick textures and modulations with notable precision and passion for this Ives' masterpiece. Listeners only need be sentimental for the good old days of Lowell Mason and William Bradbury to indentify with the symphony's message. Some will also begin to appreciate Ives as one of the first innovators of American music for his polyrythms and dissonances. Reason #2 to buy this disck is the coupling with his Orchestral Set Number 2. This fascinating exercise in tonality and polytextures is impressive. Each movement is distinctly different in thematic material and focus. The imagery of the third mvmnt will send chills up your spine. Bravo to this fine orchestra and conductor for bringing such depth and vurtuosity to every note and beat. Anyone interested in learning something new about music should give these peaces a hearing."