Martinů: Špalíček Suites Nos. 1 & 2 and Rhapsody-Concerto, H. 337

Featuring

Neeme Järvi
Mikhail Zemtsov
Estonian National Symphony Orchestra
Bohuslav Martinů

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Performer Biography

Neeme Järvi, the conductor, is the head of a musical dynasty and has amassed a discography of nearly 500 recordings, championing both famous and lesser-known composers.

Composer's Artistic Vision

Martinů was enthusiastic about including film in opera, as seen in 'The Three Wishes', and experimented with new media like radio and television for his works.

Composition History

Martinů composed 'Špalíček' in Paris between 1931 and 1932, while living in a verdant oasis that reminded him of his native land.

Performer Biography

Mikhail Zemtsov, the viola soloist, is an internationally acclaimed musician who has won prizes at the First International Viola Competition in Vienna and the Elise Meyer String Competition in Hamburg.

Composer Biography

Bohuslav Martinů, the composer, explored a remarkable number of genres in his fourteen completed operas, including Roman comedy, medieval mystery dramas, fantasy, and commedia dell'arte.

Composition History

The work 'Špalíček' is best described as an opera-ballet, featuring extensive roles for chorus and soloists alongside many dances.

Composition History

The title 'Špalíček' refers to cheaply produced collections of popular folk tales and ballads, and Martinů's work derived from folk games, customs, and fairytales.