Aaron Copland and the American Sound

Yes, there are TWO pieces to listen to this time - both are short.

Click on the following link, scroll down to “Fanfare for the Common Man,” listen and answer the questions. This is a short piece – only about 3 minutes long.
http://www.rhapsody.com/aaron-copland Click on “Fanfare for the Common Man”
Why is the opening so dramatic and compelling even though it only uses two instruments?
What instrument family is primarily used throughout this piece?
What is it about the character of that particular instrument family that fits the mood and message of the overall piece? Would it had been as affective if Copland had used the stringed instruments (violins, etc.) instead?

Click on the following link, scroll down to “Simple Gifts from Appalachian Spring,” listen and answer the following questions.
http://www.rhapsody.com/aaron-copland Click on “Simple Gifts from Appalachian Spring” (about 5 minutes long)
The tune to “Simple Gifts” is taken from an old Shaker song from the Colonial period in America – roughly the mid-1600’s. How does this contribute to the “American” sound of this music? How is it unique from any of the music from European composers that we have listened to? Name three instruments you hear, one from the woodwinds, one from the strings, one from the brass.