Ballet
Appalachian Spring
Quick heads up, this one is a modern dance landmark rather than a classical ballet, but it's too important to skip. Martha Graham and Aaron Copland made it about a young pioneer couple starting their life on the American frontier. The score won the Pulitzer Prize and that Shaker hymn tune has become one of the most beloved pieces of American music.
Fast facts
- Composer
- Aaron Copland
- Choreographer
- Martha Graham
- Premiere
- 1944, Washington, D.C.
- Structure
- One act
- Running time
- About 35 minutes
The story
A modern dance work depicting a spring celebration for a newlywed pioneer couple building a farmhouse in 19th-century rural Pennsylvania. Through Graham's grounded, weighted movement, we meet the bride, the husbandman, a fire-and-brimstone Revivalist preacher with his followers, and an older Pioneer Woman who anchors the community. The piece moves through hope, exuberance, and a touch of solemnity, closing on the young couple quiet and settled in their new home.
What Appalachian Spring is famous for
- Copland's Pulitzer Prize-winning score
- The Simple Gifts Shaker hymn variations
- A cornerstone of American modern dance
- Martha Graham's grounded, angular technique
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Appalachian Spring a ballet?
Not in the classical sense. It's a modern dance work by Martha Graham, danced on bare feet in her own technique rather than on pointe. It's often grouped with great American dance pieces because of its importance and its Copland score.
What is the Simple Gifts melody?
Copland wove the old Shaker hymn Simple Gifts into the score as a set of variations. It's the tune most people recognize instantly from the piece.
Did the score win any awards?
Yes. Aaron Copland won the 1945 Pulitzer Prize for Music for Appalachian Spring.
Who composed Appalachian Spring?
Appalachian Spring was composed by Aaron Copland.
How long is Appalachian Spring?
Appalachian Spring runs about 35 minutes.