The movement closes in fine hunting style, with horns soaring above the orchestra. Appalachian Spring Suite Appalachian Spring was written in 1943-44 for Martha Graham s dance company, and the ballet was premiered in Washington DC on October 30, 1944. The orchestral suite heard at these concerts was written in 1945, and premiered that year by the New York Philharmonic. It is essentially the coming of a new life. It has to do with growing things.
Spring is the loveliest and saddest time of the year.
The result, which Copland titled simply Ballet for Martha is one of the landmark works of American twentieth-century music. The couple receives visits and advice from neighbors and a revivalist preacher, and are finally left alone to their new lives and home. Copland s music is optimistic and evocative, calling up images of strength, courage, and religious faith from the American frontier. The Appalachian Spring Suite is cast in eight sections, which are played without pauses. Introduction of the characters, one by one, in a suffused light.