America

America's Composer

By Susan Zimmerman

Introduction:

In music we always talk about the three B's -Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms all important European composers. Today we will explore Aaron Copland, one of America's great twentieth century composers whose music reflected the rhythms of American speech, values and life.

Your Task:

Become a music detective and explore the links below. Use the printable student worksheet as you discover the life and times of Aaron Copland. Students of the Bellefonte Area School District should answer the Composer Data Form. This form will send your information to my e-mail for my approval and review.

The Process:

You will now use the links provided below to answer the information about Aaron Copland. Search the Internet and locate the answers to the questions. You may print the student worksheet to help you locate your answers or follow the answers below using a separate piece of paper to compile your answers. Remember to use the back button on your browser to return to this information page.

Composer's Name:

Composers Date of Birth and Death

When did the composer begin studying music?

What did his parents do for a living?

Did he have any siblings? If yes what are their names and were they musical?

Describe the life he led as a child. [Finances, education, quality of life, traumatic events, health]

Describe the life he led as a musician. [ finances, education, quality of life, traumatic events, health, working conditions]

List three of his Ballets and the year they were written.

List two other musical works and the year they were written.

What award did he win in 1944/45 ?

Why was Appalachian Spring written and what is the story about?

List, tell or describe any interesting information about the composer and his music.