One of the greatest American composers of the twentieth century, Aaron Copland wrote music for American audiences with genuine American themes. He changed the face of a composer's lifestyle by being involved in activities outside of the concert hall, and he wrote music according to the popular trends of his time. This ability to tap into the pulse of American popular culture elevated Copland to the status of musical icon, although Copland was a humble man who did not have the same ambition to acquire the huge audiences and fame that other musicians sought out. Copland's range of musical styles was diverse, including jazz, opera, and American folk styles. He also taught, lectured, and wrote books on musical topics. To him, music was the ultimate symbol of passion and vigor in a personality.

Copland's family came from Poland and Lithuania to the United States...