Slavonic Dances Set I

After Dvořák first gained attention via his Moravian Duets, he became a full-fledged international phenomenon with his first set of 8 Slavonic Dances in 1878. Like the former works, the Slavonic Dances (Op.46, B. 78) were inspired by Czechoslovakian folk forms, but instead of quoting any traditional Czech melodies, Dvořák wrote new ones informed by those tunes and rhythms. Brahms’ then-new Hungarian Dances were also an influence, but it was Dvořák’s own Czech cultural history that came to bear in the Slavonic Dances. The first version was a four-handed piano piece, and the second was arranged for orchestra. The vibrant, visceral feel of the opening “Presto” section captures the ear immediately, while the more varied dynamics of the “Allegretto Scherzando” create a more complex but still lively atmosphere. By the time things come to a close with the second “Presto”, especially amid the majestic rumble of the timpani and the invigorating fanfares of the brass in the orchestral version, it’s impossible not to be swept away. About Dvořák’s Slavonic Dances Dvořák’s first set of 8 Slavonic Dances, composed in 1878, gave him his first real taste of international renown. The second set, written eight years later, showed his increased sophistication as a composer. Both sets assimilate the melodies and rhythms of the folk music of Dvořák’s Czechoslovakian homeland in lively, visceral dance pieces, without ever actually quoting any traditional folk songs. Dvořák’s original four-handed piano duo versions and his subsequent orchestral versions obviously exist at opposite ends of the sonic spectrum, but both capture a true Czech feel as well as the spirit of the dance.