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“Simple Gifts” is a Shaker song written and composed by Elder Joseph Brackett (1797-1882). He was a lifelong resident of Maine, who joined the Shakers in 1819, and rose to be the head of the society in Maine. The Shaker church was founded by Mother Ann Lee, an Englishwoman who came with a few followers to America in 1774, because of religious persecution in Britain.
The song was little known outside the Shaker communities until American composer Aaron Copland used the melody in his 1944 ballet, Appalachian Spring, which won the 1945 Pulitzer Prize for Music. It has since enjoyed great popularity, and has been adapted and performed in many versions. The tune was used by Sydney Carter in 1963 with his lyrics for “Lord of the Dance.”
It is perhaps the best-known legacy of the Shakers, who are also remembered for their superb craftsmanship in buildings, furniture and handicrafts.
The Shaker Heights High School A Cappella Choirs perform The ShakerSong Tis a Gift to be Simple arranged by Aaron Copland and Bob Chilcottat the Shaker Heights Centennial Celebration Concert at Shaker Heights High School. Jesse Kapel on the piano, and conducted by Robert Schneider
Concord Singers — Robert Long, Director
January 16th is National Religious Freedom Day in the United States. The DK Religious Freedom Day group is posting diaries this week to honor the occasion, beginning with yesterday’s post by 2thanks: www.dailykos.com/...
I will be posting the story of Mother Ann Lee and the Shakers in America, tomorrow at 4 PM EST / 1 PM PST.
G’Morning/Afternoon/Evening MOTlies!