In 1942, American composer Aaron Copland was commissioned to create a musical piece that would capture the essence of an "eminent American." This commission came from conductor Andre Kostelanetz, who sought to celebrate American figures through music. Copland chose to focus on President Abraham Lincoln, resulting in the creation of the Lincoln Portrait. This orchestral work, which includes narration of Lincoln's speeches, was first performed in the same
year it was completed, marking a significant moment in American classical music.
The Commission and Composition
The idea for the Lincoln Portrait began with Andre Kostelanetz's desire to honor notable Americans through music. He approached Aaron Copland, a prominent composer known for his ability to capture the American spirit in his works. Copland accepted the challenge and decided to focus on Abraham Lincoln, a figure whose leadership and eloquence had left a lasting impact on the nation. To create the Lincoln Portrait, Copland incorporated excerpts from Lincoln's speeches and letters, as well as folk songs from Lincoln's era, such as "Camptown Races" and "On Springfield Mountain."
Copland completed the composition in April 1942. The piece is structured for a speaker and orchestra, with the brass section playing a prominent role in the opening and climactic moments. The narration includes notable excerpts from Lincoln's speeches, such as the Gettysburg Address, which adds a powerful and historical dimension to the music.
The Premiere Performance
The Lincoln Portrait premiered on May 14, 1942, performed by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. William Adams served as the narrator for this inaugural performance. The premiere was a significant event, as it introduced audiences to a new way of experiencing Lincoln's words through the medium of orchestral music. The combination of Copland's composition and Lincoln's speeches created a moving tribute to the 16th President of the United States.
The work was well-received, and its premiere marked the beginning of its journey as a staple in American orchestral repertoire. The Lincoln Portrait has since been performed by numerous orchestras and has featured a variety of narrators, each bringing their own interpretation to Lincoln's words.
Legacy and Impact
The Lincoln Portrait quickly became an important piece in the American classical music canon. Its ability to blend music with historical narrative set it apart from other compositions of its time. The work not only honors Lincoln but also serves as a reminder of the power of words and music to convey profound messages.
Despite its initial success, the Lincoln Portrait faced challenges in the years following its premiere. In 1953, the piece was withdrawn from the inaugural concert for President Dwight D. Eisenhower due to Copland's leftist views. However, this did not diminish its significance or popularity. Today, the Lincoln Portrait continues to be performed and appreciated, serving as a testament to both Copland's compositional genius and Lincoln's enduring legacy.
