Composer

:

Aaron Copland

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1950

Average_duration

:

2:37

"I Bought Me a Cat" is a playful and humorous song composed by Aaron Copland in 1952. The song is part of a collection of American folk songs arranged by Copland for voice and piano. The premiere of the song was in 1953, performed by mezzo-soprano Jennie Tourel and pianist Aaron Copland. The song is composed of several movements, each featuring a different animal and its unique sound. The first movement introduces the cat, with the lyrics "I bought me a cat, the cat pleased me, I fed my cat under yonder tree." The second movement features a hen, with the lyrics "I bought me a hen, the prettiest ever seen, she lays eggs for Easter and feathers for the queen." The third movement features a duck, with the lyrics "I bought me a duck, he caught a little fish, he caught a little crab, he caught a little dish." The song is characterized by its use of syncopated rhythms and playful melodies. Copland's use of dissonance and unexpected harmonies adds to the whimsical nature of the song. The lyrics are simple and repetitive, making the song easy to sing and remember. "I Bought Me a Cat" is a prime example of Copland's interest in American folk music and his desire to incorporate it into his compositions. The song is a lighthearted and fun addition to the American folk song canon and has become a popular piece for children's choirs and music education programs.

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