Use BBC.com or the new BBC App to listen to BBC podcasts, Radio 4 and the World Service outside the UK.

Find out how to listen to other BBC stations

Episode details

Radio 3,33 mins

Copland: Appalachian Spring (Chamber Version)

Discovering Music

Available for over a year

The theme of Aaron Copland's 1944 ballet Appalachian Spring is the pioneer spirit of a young couple about to set out on married life in early nineteenth century Pennsylvania. The spring celebration is set in their brand new farmhouse. Copland's music is often described as being among his most American sounding works, not least for the inclusion of the Shaker hymn "Simple gifts" at its climax. In this audience workshop Charles Hazlewood and members of his chamber orchestra, Excellent Device, search for the connections between the theme and the character of the music.

Programme Website
More episodes