Aaron Copland

Aaron Copland is renowned as a 20th-century American composer who created a uniquely American sound in classical music. His works, such as "Fanfare For The Common Man" and "Appalachian Spring," made orchestral music accessible and resonant with ordinary people.

At just 11 years old, Copland wrote his first notated music for an opera he dreamed up called "Zenatello." His youthful imagination was already hinting at the storytelling genius he'd later exhibit in ballets like Billy the Kid and Rodeo.

Despite his serious demeanor as a composer, Copland enjoyed hearing gossip about the music world. Even in his later years, he eagerly asked visitors about young composers and emerging musical trends.