This piece embraces the "American" sound. I heard it immediately but wasn't even sure I could put it into words. So what defines that sound....
Copland's music was a blend of contemporary classical art music with flavors of other modern genres (jazz, hymns, pop) and American folk styles. The open, slowly changing harmonies of many of his works are said to evoke the vast American landscape. For me, it's usually the parallel harmonies that make me think "American"--going between parallel 4th, 5th, and 6ths, and giving his textures a rich and colorful lushness.
Quiet City is not his best work. Not by a long shot. Basically this piece seems like a single movement trumpet concerto. The melodies quickly span and octave or more by moving around by leaps. This quick, slightly angular movement gives the piece a sense of unease. Melodies are quickly forgotten, and 5 minutes after the final chord, it's hard to remember much besides a trumpet and some gentle, full, supporting harmonies. My ears almost heard this piece as a lament...but it wasn't quite somber enough. Perhaps melancholy is the right term.
I would only recommend this piece as background music. It's very pleasing sounding, but if you focus on it, you realize not much is happening. Better suited for as a movie score or some other secondary presentation.
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