Immerse yourself in the vibrant and captivating world of Antonín Dvořák's "Slavonic Dances," a masterful collection of orchestral and chamber music that showcases the composer's deep connection to his Czech heritage. This album, set for release on October 3, 2025, under the prestigious Pentatone label, brings together two series of dances, each offering a unique blend of folk-inspired melodies and sophisticated musical structures.
The first series, composed in 1878, introduces listeners to a variety of traditional Czech dance forms, including the lively Furiant, the melancholic Dumka, and the energetic Polka. Each of the eight pieces in this series is a testament to Dvořák's ability to infuse folk music with classical elegance, creating a sound that is both familiar and innovative. The second series, completed in 1886, further explores these dance forms, introducing new variations and deeper emotional resonance.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 11 minutes, this album is a comprehensive journey through Dvořák's musical evolution, highlighting his mastery of orchestration and his deep appreciation for the rhythms and melodies of his homeland. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Slavonic Dances" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that celebrates the timeless beauty of Czech folk music.
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