Aaron Copland

Profession: Composer

Nationality:

Biography: Aaron Copland was an American composer, as well as a critic, writer, teacher, and conductor, often referred to as the "Dean of American Composers." He achieved prominence through his distinctive style, which incorporated open harmonies and elements that evoked the American landscape.

Copland's most celebrated works were created during the 1930s and 1940s, including ballets like Appalachian Spring (1944) and Rodeo (1942), Fanfare for the Common Man (1942), and his Third Symphony (1946). Copland's output spanned various genres, including chamber music and film scores.

Copland was born into a Lithuanian Jewish immigrant family. He was the youngest child and was initially taught to play piano by his sister Laurine. His further musical education came from Rubin Goldmark. Inspired by a performance by Ignacy Jan Paderewski, Copland was determined to pursue a career in composition.

After his initial musical education in America, he moved to Paris to study under Nadia Boulanger, whose teachings would greatly shape Copland's musical voice. Upon his return to the U.S., he embarked on his professional journey, engaging in lecture-recitals, writing music on commission, and teaching.

The Great Depression era saw Copland travel to Europe, Africa, and Mexico. These travels helped him forge significant relationships, such as with Mexican composer Carlos Chávez. It was during this time that he also began to develop a more accessible style of music, inspired by Gebrauchsmusik or "music for use."

Later, in the 1940s, Copland experimented with serial techniques, which were evident in pieces like his Piano Quartet (1950) and Piano Fantasy (1957). As he transitioned from composing to conducting, Copland guest-conducted for orchestras in both the United States and the United Kingdom. He also recorded his own compositions with Columbia Records, and as a result his music reached a broad audience.

His numerous accolades included the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the Pulitzer Prize, and a Congressional Gold Medal. Beyond his compositions, Copland's influence extended through his writing, teaching, and mentorship of younger composers. His legacy is maintained by the Aaron Copland Fund for Composers.

Born: November 14, 1900
Birthplace: Brooklyn, New York, USA

Generation: Lost Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Rat
Star Sign: Scorpio

Died: December 2, 1990 (aged 90)
Cause of Death: Alzheimer's disease and respiratory failure