Ives Vocal Marathon, Day 3

Another day at the Ives vocal marathon, another two long concerts. Some excellent Panels during the day too – both a conversation with Helen Boatwright, who I was glad to see again, and hear her voice. Vivian Perlis ran the interview and did a great job, although Mrs. Boatwright spoke basically nonstop for her 45 minutes.

Of particular interest was the performance of 15 Ives Fragments, perfomed by Bill Brooks and Neely Bruce, from an edition made by Ken Steen. It is strange to think about listening to a piece of music for one time only, since it isn’t at all clear whether/if these editions will be available and or recorded. Something really special – Bruce said that there were four world premiers on the program.

In the morning was a panel chaired by Peter Burkholder, with Judith Tick, Bill Brooks, and others talking about the Ives songs. There was an array of commentary, focusing mostly on Ives’s relationship with war songs (which perhaps tells you something about our present situation, too).

In the evening there was a roundtable – a scratch session for the performers and panelists to speak together. Cider was consumed and congratulations issued.

Sunday the program ends with two more concerts and a special church service.

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