Ives and Griffes

Charles Ives (1875 - 1954)

In my opinion one of the most interesting composers we've discussed in class. His life sounds very interesting. He was a very intelligent man - went to Yale, and was smart enough to realize that music business doesn't pay. He sold insurance, and earned a fortune along with the inheritance of his father, and so he composed in his spare time. This unusual pairing of "insurance salesman" and pianist/composer showed his the fullness of life. He was able to see the world from two different perspectives.
To add, from someone who writes music in their spare time - its pretty good! He is considered one of if not the best American composer to date.
His most famous work for piano is the "Concord" Sonata, which is broken down into 4 movements all named after famous transcendentalists Emerson, Hawthorne, Alcott, and Thoreau.


Charles Griffes (1884 - 1930)

Not as much to talk about with Griffes. He is one of the American impressionists, and his music is influenced by that of French impressionism. His music thus uses a number of exotic scales and what have you, for impressionistic means. He is considered the American equivalent to Debussy, but he is not nearly considered as successful as Debussy. His major works for piano included a Sonata and a tone poem. Not too much else to mention. He also wrote a few works for voice as well.