Customer Reviews

Charles E. Ives: Memos

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Like Miles Davis, Duke Ellington and Charles Mingus' respecive autobiographies, Ives' "Memos" is a fascinating look at the inner workings of one of America's greatest gifts to international music. Like Mingus espescially, Ives was a very opinionated and . . . well, masculine presence. In fact, my favorite quote, which could have easily been Mingus as well is "Stand up and face the full force of a dissonance like a man." Yikes! This collection of essays - he decided against calling the project an autobiography because, in his mind, anyone who found himself important enough to deserve one probably didn't - deals with family, friends, but focusses primarily on music aesthetics. There are several stories of awful performances, justifications for experimentalism, and run-ins with his hilarious nemesis "Rollo". Highly recommended reading for anyone interested in experimental music, masculinity, Americana, as well as Ives' history. Hey, it's all straight from the horses mouth. A primary source like this is invaluable! We're lucky this stuff wasn't lost for good.

I am finding the book a poignant look at the life and times of one of America's most original creative forces. These notes from Ives' sketchbook illuminate his mind and thought process towards his composition, as well as his personal outlook towards life. This book shows just how intelligent the man was, especially in his comments about other music and critics of his time. To any true music lover, MEMOS can't help but be an eye opener to how Charles Ives worked, thought and assimilated musical ideas during his creative periods. Original, thought provoking book. D. R. Safley, Fresno, CA

Fascinating man, with a rich background. Great resource is you are looking to understand this great American composer. (Especially from his own words)