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Musical Discussions
Topic: Copeland -- when you are in the mood

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Posted by Paul S on 01-16-2010
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RCA LSC-2401 (stereo)

Despite truly terrible electricity today there were some amazing moments from this LP.  This is the first time I have I heard this record via my present system, and it warrants a recommendation despite the unbearable sound (due to BEP).

It seems like the most popular take on Appalachian Spring is to "mimic" animal and "nature" sounds and let these "tell the story"; but Copland himself does not use this approach here, at all.  Instead, he develops the complex tumble and weave of the totally amazing modulated sonorities that he gets from instrument pairings, both tonically and texturally, and his timing and rhythms both must be heard to be believed.  And the Boston Symphony has to appreciate what they are doing, because play is so "sympatico". I'm not sure when this was recorded, but it's a high point for BSO, for sure.

This is for me a new and very rewarding way of listening to Appalachian Spring, one I will re-visit until i get to hear it with good electricity.  I'm really looking forward to that.

Paul S
Posted by zanon on 01-17-2010
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I find that my reaction to Copeland depends a great deal on the mood I am in. Unfortunately, as I mostly listen very late in the day, it is hard for me to embrace the energy (and positive violence) in his music.

If you listen in the evenings, you must be more of a night owl than I am!
Posted by Paul S on 01-17-2010
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Actually, it's been many years since I've enjoyed late night listening.  Yes, I know that late nights are best for electricity and ambient noise, both, but I just don't have it in me to stay awake anymore.  Instead, I usually try in the morning.  If the power is good, I relax and listen.  If the power is less than good, I mess around with the hi-fi stuff.  If the power is bad, I do something else.

The power was so bad when I auditioned this Copland directing the BSO through AS that I did not get far with it.  Nonetheless, I assure you that if you have a system that allows you to hear it in full, then you will be pleased to listen to it any time you can afford it your first attention.

Best regards,
Paul S

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