I agree that Ives is without a doubt the most quintessentially American composer. He believed, in the classic American tradition of inclusiveness, that "all sound is potential music". One of my favorite examples of Americanness, and of his genius, can be found in his "Concord" piano sonata. In one of the movements he borrows the famous "fate" motif from Beethoven's Fifth for the main theme, but accompanies it with typical Ivesian dissonance. A German cliche with American looking to the future; a classic American theme.
Another favorite fact about Ives, and not meaning to turn this discussion to politics, is his refusal to have his music copyrighted and he had his publisher make free copies available. For me, a sign of the generosity of America. An amazing genius.
Another favorite fact about Ives, and not meaning to turn this discussion to politics, is his refusal to have his music copyrighted and he had his publisher make free copies available. For me, a sign of the generosity of America. An amazing genius.