Victor Herbert, an Irish-born composer who studied in Stuttgart, taught cello at the National Conservatory of Music in New York alongside Dvořák.
Composer Biography
Antonín Dvořák, born the son of a butcher, decided at age 30 to abandon his viola playing and dedicate himself entirely to composition.
Composition History
Dvořák's String Serenade, written in 1875, became a bestseller, laying the foundation for his financial success and prompting his publisher, Fritz Simrock, to publish all his future works.
Composer Biography
Josef Suk, a student of Dvořák, married his teacher's daughter, Otilka, and dedicated his 'Love Song' to her.
Historical Context
Dvořák became a key artistic figure in Czech nationalism, integrating native rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic elements into his compositions.
Composition History
Dvořák's Cello Concerto, though more famous, was influenced by Victor Herbert's Second Cello Concerto, particularly in the technical treatment of the solo instrument.
Composition History
Josef Suk's Serenade was written when he was only eighteen, at Dvořák's urging to compose a piece in a major key, as Suk typically wrote in minor keys.
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