| Marketing Copy | Two series of Slavonic Dances, each of them consisting of eight numbers and separated by eight years, were composed by Antonín Dvo?ák (1841-1904). The idea was suggested to the composer by the publisher, N. Simrock, following the publisher’s introduction to Dvo?ák’s Moravian Duets by Johannes Brahms. Understanding the national characteristics and talent of the hitherto unkown Czech composer, Simrock suggested he create a series of “Slavonic Dances” in a style similar to that which had recently proved so successful in the base of Brahms’ Hungarian Dances. Using only the rhythms as the most characteristic and expressive element of Slavonic music rather than original folk dance songs, Dvo?ák quickly completed the second series of eight (Opus 72) for piano duet, often also orchestrating them while still composing. These are considered among the most personal, nationally most characteristic, and most famous of Dvo?ák’s works. Czech composer, and violin virtuoso Bohuslav Leopold (1888-1956) arranged several of the Slavonic Dances for small theater orchestra, including this arrangement of Op. 72, No. 3, Skocná (also referred to as No. 11 when the first eight dances from Op. 46 are considered). Instrumentation: 2.2.2.2: 4.2.3.0: Timp.Perc(2): Str (9-8-7-6-5 in set)(winds cross-cued for perf by smaller orchs). |
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