Dvořák's first set of Slavonic Dances (1878) made him internationally famous, as he was barely known outside his homeland beforehand.
Performer Biography
Mikhail Pletnev, the conductor, won the gold medal at the International Tchaikovsky Competition in 1978 as a formidable piano virtuoso.
Composition History
Fritz Simrock, a famous music publisher, suggested to Dvořák that he compose a set of nationalistic Czech miniatures, similar to Brahms's Hungarian Dances.
Composition History
The first set of Dvořák's Slavonic Dances was composed in just over a month and a half, reflecting the blistering speed of their creation.
Compositional Technique
The Slavonic Dances were originally composed for piano duet to ensure healthy domestic sales, but were immediately orchestrated at the publisher Simrock's request.
Performer Biography
Mikhail Pletnev founded the Russian National Orchestra in 1989, which was his country's first independent orchestra.
Cultural Impact
The Russian National Orchestra, led by Mikhail Pletnev, was the first Russian orchestra invited to play for the Pope and to tour Israel due to the sensational impact of their early appearances.
You might also enjoy...
Dvorak: Slavonic Dances, Op. 46 & 72
Dvorák: Slavonic Dances Op.46 & Op.72
Dvořák: Slavonic Dances
Dvorak: Slavonic Dances Op.46 & Op.72
Dvořák: Slavonic Dances, Op. 46 & 72
Brahms Ungarische Tänze, Dvorak Slawische Tänze
Lumbye: Orchestral Works, Vol. 6
Lumbye: Orchestral Works, Vol. 6
Beethoven: 12 Country Dances / 12 German Dances / 6 Minuets / 11 Modling Dances
