Ives and Copeland did not influence each other, but they each helped to define and build a place for American music and composers in the pantheon of classical music, which had been European-dominated until that time. This CD with book lays a foundation for a broader knowledge and understanding of American music in the 20th century overall. 1 CD.

Aaron Copland's "Scherzo Humoristique," written in 1920, is indeed musically humorous as it depicts the skittering rodent and sinister feline in a demanding, but very enjoyable etude setting, using complex 1/16 note patterns, glissando, grace notes, chromatic scale work, and a generous use of the entire keyboard. There are sudden shifts in tempo and dynamics, and the performer tells a definite story, albeit without narration. Large hand reaches, sometimes 9ths, are required on some of the full block chords. A Federation Festivals 2016-2020 selection.

Now in trade paperback: "The definitive guide to musical enjoyment" (Forum).

In this fascinating analysis of how to listen to both contemporary and classical music analytically, eminent American composer Aaron Copland offers provocative suggestions that will bring readers a deeper appreciation of the most viscerally rewarding of all art forms.