Antonín Dvořák - Viola Quintet in E flat Major Op. 97

Antonín Dvořák

 

String Quintet in E flat major, Op. 97

for two violin, 2 violas and cello

5/20/2019
Deerfield Academy Chamber Music Recital
Hess Center for the Arts

1. Allegro non tanto
2. Allegro vivo
3. Larghetto
4. Finale, allegro giusto

The Quintet in E flat Opus 97, one of Dvorak's American compositions, was written in Iowa between June and August of 1893. At that time, Dvorak had made contact with the local Indians and was trying to use native Indian music in his compositions just as he had integrated Bohemian folk melodies into earlier works. Despite this, there is little specifically Indian in the work other than the G minor theme of the opening movement, although some commentators have tried to find local influences in other parts of the work. This piece is in a standard four movement form with an opening Allegro followed by a Scherzo notable for a rather mournful theme and certain reminiscences of his compatriot Smetana. The highlight of the Quintet is the noble theme and variations that makes up the Larghetto third movement and the work is finally rounded off by a typical Allegro concluding movement.

Underwritten by Edward R. Hamilton. Music Mountain's 85th Season. The St. Petersburg String Quartet. Ricardo Cavalcante de Oliveira, viola.