1. American Sound: Copland's music is often characterized by its distinctly American flavor. He skillfully wove elements of American folk music, jazz, and popular idioms into his compositions, creating a unique sound that resonated with listeners at home and abroad. Pieces like "Appalachian Spring" and "Fanfare for the Common Man" exemplify his ability to capture the essence of American culture through music.
2. Emotional Impact: Copland's music has a remarkable ability to convey emotions and connect with the listener on a deep level. He had a gift for expressing joy, sorrow, nostalgia, and other human emotions through his compositions. Whether it's the uplifting melodies of "Hoe-Down" or the poignant harmonies of "Quiet City," Copland's music evokes strong emotional responses.
3. Melodic and Harmonic Appeal: Copland's music is melodically rich and harmonically inventive. His melodies are often simple and memorable, yet they carry emotional weight and depth. His harmonic language is innovative and often explores dissonant sounds and unexpected resolutions. This combination of lyrical melodies and interesting harmonies creates a compelling musical experience.
4. Orchestral Mastery: Copland was a master of orchestration, utilizing the full potential of the orchestra to bring his musical ideas to life. He had a profound understanding of orchestral colors and textures, allowing him to create vibrant and evocative soundscapes. His orchestral works, such as "Billy the Kid" and "Rodeo," exhibit his exceptional skill in this area.
5. Influence on American Music: Copland played a pivotal role in shaping American classical music. He mentored younger composers, promoted American music through educational initiatives, and advocated for the recognition of American composers both domestically and internationally. His contributions helped raise the profile of American music and inspired countless composers to embrace their own cultural heritage in their compositions.
In summary, Aaron Copland's music is hailed as great due to its unique American sound, its deeply emotional nature, its melodic and harmonic inventiveness, Copland's mastery of orchestration, and his significant influence on the development of American classical music. Copland's compositions stand as timeless contributions to the world of music.