Charles Ives Program Notes and Sheet Music

Charles Ives (October 20, 1874 – May 19, 1954) was an American composer who is considered one of the most important figures in American music. He was a pioneer of American musical modernism, and his music was often experimental and challenging. However, his music is also deeply rooted in American culture, and it is often infused with American folk music and hymns.

Ives was born in Danbury, Connecticut, to a musical family. His father was a bandleader and composer, and his mother was a singer. Ives began composing music at a young age, and he showed a natural talent for it.