Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Czech classical music with Antonín Dvořák's "Czech Classical Masterpieces," a meticulously curated collection of his most celebrated works. Released on June 12, 2025, under the Naxos Special Projects label, this album spans a generous 2 hours and 49 minutes, offering a comprehensive journey through Dvořák's orchestral and chamber compositions.
The album features a diverse array of pieces, including the enchanting "Vltava" (also known as "My Country: Moldau"), the dramatic "Le roi des aulnes" (based on Schubert's "Erlkönig"), and the lively "Furiant." Each track showcases Dvořák's unique ability to blend Czech folk influences with classical forms, creating music that is both deeply rooted and universally appealing.
Dvořák's mastery of various musical forms is evident throughout the album. From the delicate intricacies of "Pierrot's Serenade" to the grandeur of "To My Homeland," each composition offers a distinct emotional and musical experience. The inclusion of pieces like "Elfentanz" and "Souvenir in D Major" highlights Dvořák's versatility and his ability to craft memorable melodies that resonate with listeners.
"Czech Classical Masterpieces" is not just a collection of songs; it's a testament to Dvořák's enduring legacy and his significant contributions to the classical music canon. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Dvořák's work, this album provides a captivating exploration of one of the most influential composers of the Romantic era.
2025 Naxos Records2025 Naxos Records
Tracks
No. 8 in G MinorAntonín Dvořák, Slovenská filharmónia, Zdeněk Košler
II. Intermezzo. Hra na labute a pavyJosef Suk, Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, Joann Falletta
IV. MenuettoVitezslava Kaprálová, University of Michigan Symphony Orchestra, Kenneth Kiesler
No. 12, —Paul Wranitzky, Czech Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra, Marek Štilec
I. Adagio con motoLeoš Janáček, New Zealand String Quartet
FuriantBedřich Smetana, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Darrell Ang
No. 1, Pierrotovo zastavenicko [Pierrot's Serenade]Bohuslav Martinů, Giorgio Koukl
Variation 4Johann Nepomuk Hummel, Lise Daoust, Elizabeth Dolin, Carmen Picard
SanctusJakub Jan Ryba, Dagmar Vankatova, Pavla Ksicova, Vladimir Dolezal, Václav Sibera, Czech Madrigalists Choir, Czech Madrigalists Orchestra, Josef Ksica, František Xaver Thuri
IV. Epilogue. To My HomelandVítězslav Novák, Moravian Philharmonic Orchestra, Marek Štilec
IV. Finale. PrestissimoLeopold Koželuch, Czech Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra, Marek Štilec
Etude No. 2 in G MajorDavid Popper, Dmitry Yablonsky
I. AllegroJiří Antonín Benda, Prague Chamber Orchestra, Christian Benda
II. Minuetto. ModeratoJohann Baptist Vanhal, Vojtěch Podroužek, Jan Karas, Magdaléna Kutišová, Libor Ježek, Pavla Honsová, David Matoušek, Petr Kupčák, Michael Halasz
No. 7, Poco lento e graziosoAntonín Dvořák, Balazs Szokolay
II. Andante allegrettoCarl Czerny, Samuel Gingher, Sun-Young Shin, Benjamin Hayek
No. 2, Vltava (My Country: Moldau)Bedřich Smetana, Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra, Antoni Wit