New York-born Aaron Copland was born in Brooklyn New York on November 14, 1900 He is know for his ability to incorporate folk music, hymns, and other themes into music that is simply "American." Known for works such as "Appalachian Spring," "Rodeo" and "Fanfare for the Common Man," among many others, Copland also wrote music for the movies, theater, and abstract compositions. Copland's diverse musical output garnered him both a Pulitzer Prize and an Academy Award and he was also viewed as an important music critic.
In addition to these activities, Copland was responsible for organizing the American Composers Alliance. He influenced a number of American composers after him, many through his teaching efforts at Tanglewood.