Variations On America

In defining the United States of America, the word "diversity," in its fullest expression, would rank high on any list. On this Fourth of July 2009, OTR sends his best wishes for a safe and happy holiday in the form of Variations on America.

Charles Ives, a fiercely original American composer, wrote this piece for organ in 1891 when he was seventeen. Sadly, he was generally unknown and ignored in his lifetime, but is now recognized as a pioneer in 20th century music. The organist in this performance is another American original, Virgil Fox. Describing Fox as flamboyant in terms of his persona and technique would be an understatement. He introduced classical music to thousands of young people in a series of cross-country tours in the '70s. I was fortunate to see him perform once in an unforgettable concert in Washington. As for Variations on America, there are five of them, each speaking with a unique voice, but united by a beloved melody. It has been a favorite of mine since childhood. I hope you enjoy the next seven minutes and fifty-six seconds of diverse American originals as much as I do.

UPDATE: I forgot to mention that Fox had a repertoire of over 250 pieces, all memorized. He never performed with a score, even when accompanied by an orchestra.