Aaron Copland, Antal Dorati - Appalachian Spring, Billy The Kid Complete, Danzon Cubano, El Salon Mexico (1991)

Aaron Copland's compositions are the epitome of American folklore as well as twentieth century American classical music that has reached a worldwide audience. Various conductors and symphonies/orchestras have given his compositions different interpretations. Hungarian conductor, Antal Dorati and the London Symphony Orchestra and Minneapolis Symphony offer their rendition of Copland's ballet masterpieces for this Mercury recording. If one was an aficionado of classical music, the difference is easily identified. However, if one simply listens to the music without prior influence of watching the ballet versions of the pieces that are presented on this CD, the music speaks to the listener and creates a vivid picture of imagination that lends itself to one's own interpretation without serious criticism.
When listening to "Appalachian Spring," a picturesque image comes to mind. The first movement comes in peacefully, which may resemble the sun rising amidst a barren plain or a mountainous terrain. "Billy The Kid" captures a gun slinging outlaw as he encounters his death that is finely represented with loud blows from resounding drumbeat. "Danzon Cubano" and "El Salon Mexico" are also notable pieces that present a Latin Sound with much emphasis from the percussions, strings, and the brass section in order to present a gentle Mexican landscape.