Different from Martha Graham’s other works, Appalachian Spring was a ballet created by the composition by Aaron Copland. Martha Graham danced the lead role when it premiered in 1944. Firstly the name of the music was called as “Ballet for Martha”, and it was Graham who suggested Appalachian Spring. The word Appalachian Spring was originally from the poem written by Hart Crane:
O Appalachian Spring! I gained the ledge;
Steep, inaccessible smile that eastward bends
And northward reaches in that violet wedge
Of Adirondacks!
This work is also the first Martha Graham’s work I have seen which has a clear story. The story was about a celebration of the American pioneers after building a new farmhouse.
The theme of the dance was really clear, which presented a celebration of the American pioneers after building a new farm house. The Martha Graham was the lead dancer that presented an important role in the dance. Different from her other dances, this dance's idea came from a poem. However, Martha Graham as one of the most four influenced modern dancers, she really presents the emotion well via the dance.
ReplyDeleteI agree that this work is a wonderful example of story telling. Even though there are many abstractions and there are not words, the dance and the emotion from the dancers clearly shows what is transpiring, and I find that satisfying to watch.
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