Simple Gifts

Description

Of all Shaker hymns, this is undoubtedly the best known because it served as the basis for Copland’s ballet, Appalachian Spring. Arranged here for strings, it combines simple pentatonic melodies with memorable rhythms. Harmonics, tremolo and strummed chords in the keys of G and D add flair, and the score contains an excellent synopsis of Shaker life for students and audiences. Duration 2:15.