Welcome to the Course on Antonín Dvořák (1841 - 1904)

                                Antonín Dvořák bio            Dvořák's  Compositions by Genre            Online Piano 


   Course Description

            Explore the music of the late 19th century Czech composer Antonín Dvořák.  His early 
      career followed the nationalist example of his predecessor Bedřich Smetana by employing 
      melodies and rhythms of Bohemian and Moravian folk music in works such as Slavonik 
      Dances.  His Rusalka is a cornerstone of Czech opera while his "Dumky" Trio, his second 

      Piano Quintet, and his Cello Concerto are all considered masterpieces of their respective 

      genres.  
 
            Between 1892 and 1895 Dvořák worked in the United States and learned about African-
       American spirituals and Native American music. This period inspired his popular "American" 
       string  quartet and his famous Symphony from the New World.   Dvořák's exquisite melodic

       lyricism is a significant factor in his popularity among classical music lovers. 

              Videos of renowned musicians performing Dvorak's music enhance your instructor's   
       discussions of the compositions.  Czech folk music, Czech nationalism, and other important 
       Czech composers are discussed.  Resources to further explore Dvořák's music are provided.   

Course Syllabus

              Session 1:     Course Overview: Antonín Dvořák and Czech National Music


              Session 2:     Dvořák's Chamber Music


              Session 3:     Dvořák's Chamber Music  (continued)

                                    Dvořák's Orchestra Music


              Session 4:      Dvořák's Orchestra Music  (continued)

                  Extras:       Antonín Dvořák's Piano Music