What is the story behind Appalachian Spring?

Appalachian Spring tells the story of a young frontier couple on their wedding day. Created as the war in Europe was drawing to end, the ballet captured the imagination of Americans who were beginning to believe in a more prosperous future, a future in which men and women would be united again.

What hymn tune was used in Appalachian Spring?

Simple Gifts
The Shakers’ “Simple Gifts” melody appears in Aaron Copland’s music for the ballet Appalachian Spring. For many years, an excerpt was used as the opening theme for the CBS News television documentary series, CBS Reports.

Is Rodeo part of Appalachian Spring?

most famous of which is Appalachian Spring (1944), with its score by Aaron Copland. Another source…… … Kid (1938), Rodeo (1942), and Appalachian Spring (1944; commissioned by……

Did Aaron Copland write Lord of the Dance?

Copland used a Shaker song, “Simple Gifts”, composed in 1848 and usually attributed to Elder Joseph Brackett. This same Shaker tune was used by Sydney Carter in a widely recognized hymn entitled “Lord of the Dance”.

Who was the patron of the Appalachian Spring ballet?

Appalachian Spring was commissioned in 1942 by the American patron of the arts Elizabeth Sprague Coolidge, who requested a new ballet for the dancer and choreographer Martha Graham.

Who was the composer of the Appalachian Spring?

Originally it was a ballet that he wrote for the famous ballerina Martha Graham. Martha wanted to create a ballet about something American. She had the idea of a story about four American pioneers. At first, Aaron called his piece “Ballet for Martha”.

When did Martha Graham dance in Appalachian Spring?

It premiered on Monday, October 30, 1944 at the Library of Congress in Washington D.C., with Martha Graham dancing the lead role. The set was designed by the American sculptor Isamu Noguchi. Copland was awarded the 1945 Pulitzer Prize for Music for his achievement. Problems playing this file? See media help.

When was the Appalachian Spring performed by Aaron Copland?

Join Britannica’s Publishing Partner Program and our community of experts to gain a global audience for your work! Appalachian Spring, ballet by Aaron Copland, first performed in Washington, D.C., on October 30, 1944.