What inspired Dvořák to write the "New World" Symphony during his time in America? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Antonín Dvořák: The Czech Composer Who Conquered the World
Antonín Dvořák's Symphony No. 9 in E minor, Op. 95, is also known as the "New World Symphony." It is one of Dvořák's most famous and frequently performed compositions and is filled with interesting facts and historical significance:
Inspired by America: Dvořák composed the New World Symphony during his time as the director of the National Conservatory of Music in New York City from 1892 to 1895. During this period, he was heavily influenced by American music, particularly Native American and African American folk music. This influence is evident in the symphony's melodies and rhythms.
Famous Largo: The second movement of the symphony, the Largo, is one of the most recognizable and beloved pieces of classical music. It features a beautiful, melancholic melody played on the cor anglais (a type of oboe), which is often associated with the spirit of the American frontier.
Premiered at Carnegie Hall: The New World Symphony had its premiere at Carnegie Hall in New York City on December 16, 1893. This performance was conducted by Antonín Dvořák himself and was met with great enthusiasm.
A Fusion of Styles: The symphony combines elements of Dvořák's Czech heritage with American influences. While the work is firmly rooted in the European symphonic tradition, it also incorporates American folk elements, creating a unique and captivating fusion of styles.
Dedication to Native American and African American Cultures: Dvořák dedicated the symphony to "the people of the United States" and expressed his admiration for Native American and African American music. He saw these musical traditions as a valuable source of inspiration for American composers.
Pentatonic Scale: Dvořák incorporated the pentatonic scale, a five-note scale often found in Native American and African American music, into the symphony's melodies. This gives the music a distinctive and somewhat exotic quality.
Influence on American Composers: Dvořák's time in the United States and his compositions, including the New World Symphony, had a significant influence on American composers such as George Gershwin, Aaron Copland, and Samuel Barber. His emphasis on using American themes and folk music helped shape the American classical music tradition.
Four Movements: The symphony consists of four movements:
Czech Nationalism: While in the United States, Dvořák continued to express his Czech nationalism. He believed that through his music, he could contribute to the development of an American national musical identity, much as he had done for Czech music.
Legacy: Symphony No. 9 remains one of Dvořák's most popular and enduring works. It is frequently performed by orchestras around the world and is cherished for its evocative melodies and the fascinating blend of European and American musical influences.