This week we
are looking at the works of American composer Aaron Copland and examining his
approach to creating an “American sound.” Today, let’s look at one of his most
famous works, Appalachian Spring (1943–1944),
that won him a Pulitzer Prize.
Appalachian
Spring was
originally written as a ballet for dancer/choreographer Martha Graham. The
ensemble consisted of only thirteen musicians. It wasn’t until later on that he
arranged the piece into the orchestral suite most people are familiar with
today.
One famous
medley in Appalachian Spring is taken
from the Shaker hymn ‘Tis the Gift to Be
Simple. Copland then varies this theme throughout the work. In an attempt
to evoke images of rural, American life, Copland uses wide sonorities and open
fifths and octaves, a trait commonly used to express American ideas in music.
Here is a
performance of Copland’s Appalachian
Spring by the Ulster Orchestra.
Also check out this great arrangement by
John Williams that was performed at the 2008 Presidential Inauguration.
Do you think
Copland was successful in creating the “American sound” in his music?
