About Copland House, Inc.

n a rocky hill atop three acres of woodland in the lower Hudson River Valley hamlet of Cortlandt Manor, less than one hour north of New York City, is “a dwelling of particular historical interest” (The New York Post) -- the home where Aaron Copland, one of the most celebrated and profoundly influential musical figures in American history, lived and worked for the last thirty years of his life (from 1960 to 1990). Built around 1940, the prairie-style home is spacious yet unostentatious, and reflects Copland's rugged elegance and unforced dignity. “The rustic, hilltop house, with its wrap-around windows, simple furnishings, and woodsy setting, provides plenty of inspiration.” (The New York Times)

A few years after Copland's death in 1990, a coalition of local citizens launched a genuine grassroots movement to preserve and restore this historic residence as a living, enduring cultural asset, embodying his peerless, lifelong advocacy of American music. The founders, incorporated in 1995, were dedicated to ensuring that Copland's home remained an inspiration to the music world and a source of pride for America. Following extensive physical renovations, Copland House became operational in 1998, with the initiation of its Aaron Copland Awards composers’ residencies, Music from Copland House chamber ensemble, public and community programs, educational activities bringing students into contact with American music, and various recording, broadcast, and Internet projects. The noted pianist and recording artist Michael Boriskin was appointed Artistic Director that year, and became Artistic and Executive Director in 2003.

An Official Project of the White House Save America’s Treasures program and an entry in the National Register of Historic Places, Copland House is the only composer’s home in the United States devoted to nurturing American composers and their work through a broad range activities. As the American Record Guide has noted, "Copland's personal qualities of generosity, gentleness, and a sense of measure live on at Copland House."

Copland House seeks to honor and preserve America's vibrant musical heritage, as it encourages the creation of new traditions. It welcomes all who wish to join on an historic journey to build a unique place where America's musical past and future meet.