Simple Gifts

"Simple Gifts" is a traditional Shaker song.

Modern Arrangements

This Shaker dance song has become world famous thanks to its use in Aaron Copland's ballet score, Appalachian Spring, first performed in 1944. Copland used "Simple Gifts" a second time in 1950 in his first set of Old American Songs for soloist and piano, which was later orchestrated.

Related Topics:
Aaron Copland - Appalachian Spring - 1944 - 1950

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Elder Joseph's song has been adapted or arranged many times by folksingers and composers. Probably the best known example is by English songwriter Sydney Carter, who adapted the Shaker tune for his song Lord of the Dance, first published in 1963,

Related Topics:
Sydney Carter - Lord of the Dance - 1963

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