Immerse yourself in the vibrant and captivating world of Antonín Dvořák's "Slavonic Dances," a collection of 16 lively and evocative pieces that showcase the composer's deep connection to his Czech heritage. This album, set for release on October 3, 2025, under the prestigious Pentatone label, is a celebration of folk dances and melodies that Dvořák brilliantly transformed into orchestral masterpieces.
Divided into two series, the "Slavonic Dances" offer a rich tapestry of musical styles and moods. The first series, composed in 1878, introduces us to the Furiant, Dumka, Polka, and other traditional dances, each infused with Dvořák's distinctive orchestral color and rhythmic vitality. The second series, completed in 1886, further explores these folk forms, adding depth and variety to the collection.
From the energetic and playful "Furiant" to the graceful and elegant "Polonéza," each dance is a testament to Dvořák's ability to blend folk melodies with sophisticated orchestration. The album's duration of 1 hour and 11 minutes provides a comprehensive journey through these enchanting pieces, performed with precision and passion by a top-tier orchestra.
Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Dvořák's "Slavonic Dances" promises an engaging and rewarding listening experience. This album is a testament to the enduring power of folk music and the genius of one of the most beloved composers of the Romantic era.
2025 PENTATONE Music B.V.2025 Czech Philharmonic under exclusive license to PENTATONE Music B.V.
Tracks
Slavonic Dances, Series I, B. 83: No. 1 in C Major, Furiant. PrestoAntonín Dvořák, Czech Philharmonic, Sir Simon Rattle
Slavonic Dances, Series I, B. 83: No. 2 in E Minor, Dumka. Allegretto scherzandoAntonín Dvořák, Czech Philharmonic, Sir Simon Rattle
Slavonic Dances, Series I, B. 83: No. 3 in A-Flat Major, Polka. Poco allegroAntonín Dvořák, Czech Philharmonic, Sir Simon Rattle
Slavonic Dances, Series I, B. 83: No. 4 in F Major, Sousedská. Tempo di minuettoAntonín Dvořák, Czech Philharmonic, Sir Simon Rattle
Slavonic Dances, Series I, B. 83: No. 5 in A Major, Skočná. Allegro vivaceAntonín Dvořák, Czech Philharmonic, Sir Simon Rattle
Slavonic Dances, Series I, B. 83: No. 6 in D Major, Sousedská. Allegretto scherzandoAntonín Dvořák, Czech Philharmonic, Sir Simon Rattle
Slavonic Dances, Series I, B. 83: No. 7 in C Minor, Skočná. Allegro assaiAntonín Dvořák, Czech Philharmonic, Sir Simon Rattle
Slavonic Dances, Series I, B. 83: No. 8 in G Minor, Furiant. PrestoAntonín Dvořák, Czech Philharmonic, Sir Simon Rattle
Slavonic Dances, Series II, B. 147: No. 1 in B Major, Odzemek. Molto vivaceAntonín Dvořák, Czech Philharmonic, Sir Simon Rattle
Slavonic Dances, Series II, B. 147: No. 2 in E Minor, Mazur. Allegretto graziosoAntonín Dvořák, Czech Philharmonic, Sir Simon Rattle
Slavonic Dances, Series II, B. 147: No. 3 in F Major, Skočná. AllegroAntonín Dvořák, Czech Philharmonic, Sir Simon Rattle
Slavonic Dances, Series II, B. 147: No. 4 in D-Flat Major, Dumka. Allegretto graziosoAntonín Dvořák, Czech Philharmonic, Sir Simon Rattle
Slavonic Dances, Series II, B. 147: No. 5 in B-Flat Minor, Špacírka. Poco adagioAntonín Dvořák, Czech Philharmonic, Sir Simon Rattle
Slavonic Dances, Series II, B. 147: No. 6 in B-Flat Major, Polonéza. Moderato, quasi minuettoAntonín Dvořák, Czech Philharmonic, Sir Simon Rattle
Slavonic Dances, Series II, B. 147: No. 7 in C Major, Srbské kolo. PrestoAntonín Dvořák, Czech Philharmonic, Sir Simon Rattle
Slavonic Dances, Series II, B. 147: No. 8 in A-Flat Major, Sousedská. Lento grazioso, quasi tempo di valseAntonín Dvořák, Czech Philharmonic, Sir Simon Rattle