Search - Phillip Ellis, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra :: Copland: Fanfare for the Common Man; Billy the Kid and Others

On one of his successful visits to America, Czech composer Antonín Dvo?ák published a fascinating article on the importance of folk music for contemporary composers. He felt that American composers were neglecting a valuable source of exciting and beautiful musical material, and urged them to examine the music of the black communities and the Native American Indians. Succeeding generations of indigenous American composers were quick to follow his example, and the exploration of folk traditions became an important element in their music. Aaron Copland's brilliant work, performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, reflects this tradition.