Ensemble Explorations - Frank Braley

The happiness Dvorák felt following the overwhelming success of his first set of Slavonic Dances clearly influenced the charming jewel, Bagatelles, which he wrote for the family circle of his friend Josef Srb-Debrnov in 1878. Dvorák's first, truly characteristic chamber music piece with piano is the Piano Quartet opus 23. It was written in the summer of 1875 and was first performed five years later in Prague. Once again, the influence of Schubert's principles of composition comes through the strongest. The andantino is especially beautiful; a series of five variations on a simple, melodious theme. With the Piano Quintet opus 81, we hear one of the most brilliant chamber music pieces ever written. There is not a single superfluous note (and there are a lot of notes in this particular score!); the melodies are scintillating and bubble over with the joy of spring. Of course, Dvorák's Czech soul also gives rise to a few sorrowful moments, but these are immediately counterbalanced by optimism and merriment. Here, professional skill becomes true mastery. The Universiteit Vrije Tijd Davidsfonds is organising a course on Dvorák . lecturer Yves Knockaert . starting Monday 4th October 2004 . for more information, call +32 (0)16 31 06 70