Copland: Billy the Kid first page (manuscript)

It’s always exciting to come across a piece that’s instantly approachable, especially when it is one that I’m not previously aware of. That is the case with Billy the Kid by Aaron Copland. It’s a title, at least, that I’ve heard of for a while, but not until this morning had I ever said, “Ya’know, I’m gonna sit down and listen to Billy the Kid now.” I was delighted from the start, listening to the full suite twice as I prepared a large breakfast this morning. I chose the piece for its expected flavor (summer has a way of making me search for quintessential American pieces), and because I’ve been interested in using it for Snooch’s Silly Symphony since I discovered the recording by the New England Conservatory  I’ll be using this week.

Unfortunately for me, the score is not available online, as it is not yet in the public domain. No worries, though, I can at least get a physical copy from my university library. I always think it’s funny that getting a proper physical book ends up feeling like a compromise nowadays.

First Impressions

My expectations were correct. This is pure apple pie, barbecued hot dog, corn on the cob Aaron Copland at his finest. There’s no mistaking this for American music!