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Appalachian Spring Lyrics

0:00 - 1. Very slowly. Introduction of the characters, one by one, in a suffused light.

3:01 - 2. Fast/Allegro. Sudden burst of unison strings in A major arpeggios starts the action. A sentiment both elated and religious gives the keynote to this scene.
5:56 - 3. Moderate/Moderato. Duo for the Bride and her Intended -- scene of tenderness and passion.

9:50 - 4. Quite fast. The Revivalist and his flock. Folksy feeling - suggestions of square dances and country fiddlers.
13:21 - 5. Still faster/Subito Allegro. Solo dance of the Bride - presentiment of motherhood. Extremes of joy and fear and wonder.

17:23 - 6. Very slowly (as at first). Transition scene to music reminiscent of the introduction.

18:41 - 7. Calm and flowing/Doppio Movimento. Scenes of daily activity for the Bride and her Farmer husband. There are five variations on a Shaker theme. The theme, sung by a solo clarinet, was taken from a collection of Shaker melodies compiled by Edward D. Andrews, and published under the t**le "The Gift to Be Simple." The melody borrowed and used almost literally is called "Simple Gifts."

21:44 - 8. Moderate. Coda/Moderato - Coda. The Bride takes her place among her neighbors. At the end the couple are left "quiet and strong in their new house." Muted strings intone a hushed prayerlike chorale passage. The close is reminiscent of the opening music.
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Appalachian Spring / The Tender Land - Suite (1960)
Appalachian Spring I. Introduction And Love Music II. Party Scene / III. Finale: The Promise Of Living
Top Aaron Copland; Boston Symphony Orchestra Lyrics