Composer

:

Charles Ives

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song: Art Song

Compose Date

:

1920 - 1921

Publication Date

:

1922

First Performance

:

Jan 17, 1924

Average_duration

:

2:45

"Charlie Rutlage, S. 226" is a song composed by Charles Ives in 1914. It premiered in 1924, performed by baritone William Horne and pianist John Kirkpatrick. The song is part of Ives' collection of songs titled "114 Songs," which he composed between 1887 and 1921. The song is in three movements, with a total duration of approximately six minutes. The first movement is marked "Moderato," and features a simple, folk-like melody in the piano accompaniment. The vocal line is characterized by wide leaps and a declamatory style, with the lyrics telling the story of Charlie Rutlage, a cowboy who dies in a gunfight. The second movement, marked "Allegretto," is a brief interlude featuring a jaunty piano melody. The final movement, marked "Moderato con anima," returns to the main theme of the first movement, but with a more complex and varied piano accompaniment. The vocal line becomes more expressive, with the lyrics describing the aftermath of Charlie Rutlage's death and the mourning of his loved ones. "Charlie Rutlage, S. 226" is characteristic of Ives' style, which often incorporates elements of American folk music and hymns into his compositions. The song also demonstrates Ives' interest in experimenting with unconventional harmonies and rhythms, as well as his use of dissonance and polytonality. The lyrics, written by Ives himself, reflect his fascination with American history and culture, as well as his interest in exploring themes of mortality and spirituality. Overall, "Charlie Rutlage, S. 226" is a poignant and evocative song that showcases Ives' unique musical voice and his contribution to the development of American classical music.

More....