Symphony No. 3 (Ives)

Charles Ives' Symphony No. 3, subtitled "The Camp Meeting," is a work composed between 1901 and 1904, although revisions continued until 1911. It is a relatively compact and reflective symphony, drawing inspiration from Ives' childhood experiences attending outdoor religious revival meetings in Redding, Connecticut.

The symphony is structured in three movements:

• I. Old Folks Gatherin': This movement evokes a sense of anticipation and communal gathering. It features simple hymn tunes and a generally pastoral atmosphere.

• II. Children's Day: This movement is based on two hymn tunes: "Jesus Loves Me" and "There is a Fountain Filled with Blood." It depicts the innocent faith of children and the joyful atmosphere of a children's day service.

• III. Communion: This movement is the most introspective and contemplative. It features the hymn tune "Just As I Am" and concludes with a quiet, meditative passage.

Ives' Symphony No. 3 is notable for its use of American vernacular music, including hymn tunes and folk melodies. It also employs Ives' characteristic techniques, such as polytonality (the simultaneous use of multiple keys) and polyrhythm (the simultaneous use of multiple rhythms), although to a lesser extent than in some of his later works. The symphony's understated orchestration and intimate character set it apart from many other symphonies of the period.

Despite its early composition, Symphony No. 3 remained largely unknown until the 1940s. In 1947, it was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Music, bringing belated recognition to Ives and his work. It has since become recognized as a significant contribution to the American symphonic repertoire.