Charles Ives was an American composer born in 1874, known for his innovative and experimental approach to music. He often blended different musical styles, incorporating elements of American folk music, classical traditions, and even jazz. Ives was a pioneer in using polytonality, where multiple keys are played simultaneously, creating a unique sound that was ahead of his time. Despite his groundbreaking work, Ives was not widely recognized during his lifetime. He spent much of his career working in the insurance industry, composing music in his spare time. Today, Ives is celebrated as a significant figure in 20th-century music, influencing many composers who followed him.