Immerse yourself in the rich, orchestral world of Aaron Copland with "Copland: Orchestral Works, Vol. 1 - Ballet Suites," released on January 29, 2016, under the Chandos label. This captivating album spans a duration of 1 hour and 19 minutes, offering a symphonic journey through some of Copland's most celebrated ballet suites.
The album opens with the iconic "Fanfare for the Common Man," followed by the vibrant "El Sálon México." The heart of the collection lies in the suites from Copland's renowned ballets. "Billy the Kid Suite" takes you on a wild ride through the American frontier, with tracks like "Street in a Frontier Town" and "Gun Battle" painting vivid scenes of adventure and drama. The suite culminates in "Billy's Death" and a reflective return to "The Open Prairie again."
"Appalachian Spring Suite" offers a more pastoral experience, with its seven movements ranging from "Very Slowly" to "As at first (slowly)," evoking the beauty and simplicity of rural America. The album concludes with "Four Dance Episodes from Rodeo," featuring lively tracks like "Buckaroo Holiday" and the energetic "Hoe-Down," showcasing Copland's ability to capture the spirit of American dance and culture.
Performed by the BBC Philharmonic and conducted by Neeme Järvi, this album is a testament to Copland's mastery of orchestral composition. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or new to the genre, this collection offers a compelling exploration of one of America's most influential composers.
2016 Chandos Records2016 Chandos Records
Tracks
Fanfare for the Common ManAaron Copland, John Wilson, BBC Philharmonic
El Sálon MéxicoAaron Copland, John Wilson, BBC Philharmonic
Billy the Kid Suite: I. Introduction. The Open PrairieAaron Copland, John Wilson, BBC Philharmonic
Billy the Kid Suite: II. Street in a Frontier TownAaron Copland, John Wilson, BBC Philharmonic
Billy the Kid Suite: III. Mexican Dance and FinaleAaron Copland, John Wilson, BBC Philharmonic
Billy the Kid Suite: IV. Prairie Night (Card game at night)Aaron Copland, John Wilson, BBC Philharmonic
Billy the Kid Suite: V. Gun BattleAaron Copland, John Wilson, BBC Philharmonic
Billy the Kid Suite: VI. Celebraton (after Billy's capture)Aaron Copland, John Wilson, BBC Philharmonic
Billy the Kid Suite: VII. Billy's DeathAaron Copland, John Wilson, BBC Philharmonic
Billy the Kid Suite: VIII. The Open Prairie againAaron Copland, John Wilson, BBC Philharmonic
Appalachian Spring Suite: I. Very SlowlyAaron Copland, John Wilson, BBC Philharmonic
Appalachian Spring Suite: II. AllegroAaron Copland, John Wilson, BBC Philharmonic
Appalachian Spring Suite: III. ModeratoAaron Copland, John Wilson, BBC Philharmonic
Appalachian Spring Suite: IV. FastAaron Copland, John Wilson, BBC Philharmonic
Appalachian Spring Suite: V. Subito allegroAaron Copland, John Wilson, BBC Philharmonic
Appalachian Spring Suite: VI. Meno mossoAaron Copland, John Wilson, BBC Philharmonic
Appalachian Spring Suite: VII. As at first (slowly)Aaron Copland, John Wilson, BBC Philharmonic
Four Dance Episodes from Rodeo: I. Buckaroo HolidayAaron Copland, John Wilson, BBC Philharmonic
Four Dance Episodes from Rodeo: II. Corral NocturneAaron Copland, John Wilson, BBC Philharmonic
Four Dance Episodes from Rodeo: III. Saturday Night WaltzAaron Copland, John Wilson, BBC Philharmonic
Four Dance Episodes from Rodeo: IV. Hoe-DownAaron Copland, John Wilson, BBC Philharmonic