Appalachian Spring Suite
Aaron Copland
Section 1
"Very slowly. Introduction of the characters (bride, groom, a neighbor, revivalist preacher and his flock), one by one, in a suffused light." The peaceful open countryside is evoked by quiet dynamics, sustained harmonics, and evenly flowing rhythms.
Section 2
"Fast." Strings and piano in unison suddenly begin a joyful dance tune that is American in flavor.
"A sentiment both elated and religious" grows as the dance tune is combined with a solemn hymnlike melody in the ff winds. The section ends calmly; strings softly sing the hymnlike melody, while the flute recalls the dance tune.
Section 3
Moderate. Duo for the Bride and her Intended - scene of tenderness and passion." Gently woodwind solos frame an intense dissonant passage for muted strings.
Section 4
"Quite fast. The Revivalist and his flock. Folksy feeling - suggestions of square dances and country fiddlers." Off-beat accents produce a delightfully humorous effect. After a brief pause, a slow transition begins with an "eloquent" ff passage and leads to
Section 5
"Still faster. Solo dance of the Bride - presentiment of motherhood. Extremes of joy and fear and wonder." Breathless motion and rapid syncopations create excitement.
Section 6
"Very slowly (as at first)." A high solo violin begins this "Transition scene to music reminiscent of the Introduction." Again, the peaceful countryside is evoked.
Section 7
"Calm and flowing. Scenes of daily activity for the Bride and her Farmer-husband." There are five variations on the Shaker melody, "Simple Gifts." The theme is introduced by a clarinet.
Variation 1 - An oboe presents the theme "a trifle faster" and in a higher register.
Variation 2 - Against high sounds in the piano and harp, the violas play the theme at half its previous speed. Then the violins and cellos in turn imitate the theme, creating a polyphonic texture. A brief transition leads to
Variation 3 - Trumpets and trombones proclaim the theme at twice the previous speed, against rapid notes in the strings.
Variation 4 - Woodwinds quietly play the second part of the theme at "a trifle slower" tempo than the preceding variation.
Variation 5 - The first part of the theme is majestically played fff by the full orchestra.
Section 8
Moderate. The Bride takes her place among her neighbors." After a hushed passage for muted strings marked "like a prayer," there is a quiet recollection of the hymnlike melody. The neighbors leave and the bride and groom are left "quiet and strong in their new house."