Composer

:

Aaron Copland

Genre

:

Ballet

Style

:

Ballet

Compose Date

:

1943 - 1944

First Performance

:

Oct 30, 1944

Average_duration

:

31:05

Movement_count

:

9

Movement ....

Appalachian Spring is a ballet composed by Aaron Copland in 1944. The ballet was commissioned by choreographer Martha Graham and premiered on October 30, 1944, at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. The ballet tells the story of a young couple who are starting a new life in the American West. The ballet is divided into eight movements, each with its own unique character and mood. The first movement, titled "Very slowly," sets the stage for the ballet with a slow, contemplative melody played by the clarinet. The second movement, "Allegro," is a lively dance that represents the excitement and energy of the young couple as they begin their new life together. The third movement, "Moderato: The Bride and her Intended," is a duet between the bride and groom that expresses their love and devotion to each other. The fourth movement, "Fast: The Revivalist and his Flock," is a frenzied dance that represents the religious fervor of the revivalist and his followers. The fifth movement, "Moderato: Solo Dance of the Bride," is a solo dance by the bride that expresses her individuality and independence. The sixth movement, "Meno mosso: Variations on a Shaker Hymn," is a series of variations on the Shaker hymn "Simple Gifts." The seventh movement, "Moderato: Coda," brings the ballet to a close with a reprise of the opening melody played by the clarinet. The final movement, "Very slowly," is a quiet, reflective coda that represents the couple's contentment and happiness in their new life together. Appalachian Spring is known for its use of folk melodies and simple harmonies, which reflect Copland's interest in American folk music. The ballet is also notable for its use of silence and space, which allow the dancers to express themselves through movement and gesture. Overall, Appalachian Spring is a beautiful and moving ballet that celebrates the American spirit and the beauty of the American landscape. Its timeless themes of love, faith, and freedom continue to resonate with audiences today.

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