When and where was Aaron Copland born?
Aaron Copland was born in Brooklyn, New York, on the 14th of November 1900. He grew up above his family's store at 628 Washington Avenue.
Questions about Aaron Copland
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Who taught Aaron Copland music in Paris?
Aaron Copland studied with Nadia Boulanger for three years after switching from Isidor Philipp and Paul Vidal. She influenced his broad musical taste through her incisive mind and eclectic approach to composition.
What major works did Aaron Copland compose during the 1930s and 1940s?
Aaron Copland composed El Salón México completed in 1936, Billy the Kid ballet premiered in 1939, Rodeo shortly after, and Appalachian Spring which opened in 1944. These works established him as an authentic American composer using folk songs and accessible styles.
How did Aaron Copland respond to FBI investigations during the Red scare?
Aaron Copland resigned from participation in leftist groups beginning in 1950 and decried lack of artistic freedom under Soviet Communism publicly. The investigations ceased officially in 1955 though closed completely only in 1975.
When did Aaron Copland die and what caused his death?
Aaron Copland passed away on the 2nd of December 1990 due to respiratory failure caused by Alzheimer's disease. He died in North Tarrytown before his ashes were scattered over Tanglewood Music Center near Lenox Massachusetts.