The great American composer Aaron Copland, who passed away 30 years ago today, was considered by many to be the dean of American composers. His orchestral works, including "Appalachian Spring," and "Rodeo," were performed as ballets, and written in a populist style that Copland described as the American "vernacular." First performed in October 1944, the majestic "Simple Gifts" from "Appalachian Spring" became an instant classic, first by the Boston Symphony Orchestra, followed by other major symphony orchestras. Borrowed from a 19th century Shaker hymn, "Simple Gifts," accompanied here by Ansel Adams' stunning black and white photography, is today's song, performed by the City of London Sinfonia.
