Aaron Copland

Copland suffered from Alzheimer's disease.

Copland was a highly awarded composer, earning the Pulitzer Prize, multiple Academy Award nominations, and an Oscar. He was also awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the National Medal of Arts, and a special Congressional Gold Medal.

Hundreds of young composers, including Leonard Bernstein, found a mentor in Aaron Copland.

The compositions of Aaron Copland were often used to raise the morale of American soldiers during World War II.

A talented and versatile composer, Copland wrote ballets, orchestral music, chamber music, vocal works, operas and film scores.

Copland had the ability to "paint pictures" with his compositions.

Appalachian Spring was Copland's first real hit.

Copland's distinctly American-flavored compositions earned him the title "Dean of American Composers."

Jewish emigrants from Lithuania, Aaron Copland's parents came to the United States through Ellis Island.

When he was just eight years old, Copland started writing music. His early musical instruction was from his older sister, Laurine.

At age fifteen, Copland decided to become a composer after attending a recital given by the Polish pianist Paderewski.

Copland authored two best-selling books on music and music appreciation.