Dvořák’s masterpiece. Popular classical music.
When you think of the New World Symphony and the Slavonic Dances, you think of the Czech composer Antonín Leopold Dvořák.
Among classical composers, Dvořák is as well-known as Beethoven or Mozart; in Japan, the viola solo from his String Quartet “American” and the second movement of the New World Symphony are cherished under the title “Home, Sweet Home,” and the fourth movement of the New World is so familiar that even those who don’t know the composer’s name recognize its melody.
He is celebrated as one of classical music’s foremost melody-makers.
Here, we introduce the appeal of Dvořák’s works alongside outstanding performances by musicians from around the world.
- Dvořák’s Piano Works: A Curated Selection of Masterpieces Filled with Love for His Homeland, Czechia
- [Masterpiece Classics] A special showcase of gem-like masterpieces so beautiful they’ll move you to tears
- Cool classical masterpieces. Recommended classical music.
- A masterpiece by Richard Wagner. Popular classical music.
- [Haydn] Pick up famous and representative pieces!
- Jacques Ibert Popular Song Ranking [2026]
- Debussy’s masterpiece. Popular classical music.
- Antonín Dvořák Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
- [Tchaikovsky] Pick up famous and representative pieces!
- Brahms's masterpieces. Popular classical music.
- [Orchestra] Introducing famous and popular pieces
- Chopin’s masterpieces. Popular classical music.
- Masterpieces by Gustav Mahler. Popular classical music.
Dvořák’s Masterpieces: Popular Classical Music (31–40)
Czech Suite in D major, Op. 39: No. 2, “Polka”Antonín Dvořák
Czech composer Antonín Dvořák, known as a leading figure of the Czech national school, wrote the piano duet Czech Suite, Op.
39, in 1879.
The second piece, Polka, is notable for its lyrical and melancholic melody based on Czech folk dance.
It begins in D minor with a slightly wistful theme, then modulates to F major, transforming into a more rhythmic and expressively rich character—quintessential Dvořák at his finest.
Though it requires advanced technique to perform, it is highly recommended for those who want to savor the emotional Czech melodies while enjoying its distinctive rhythms.
Piano Quintet in A major, Op. 81Antonín Dvořák
Antonín Dvořák, a composer proudly representing the Czech national school, is celebrated for his Piano Quintet in A major, Op.
81.
This work is infused with the essence of the folk music of Bohemia and Moravia, where he was born.
In particular, the second movement, the “Dumka,” seems to reflect the composer’s deep feelings for his homeland through its bittersweet melody and passionate central section.
Across all four movements, the inventive harmonies and textures keep listeners fully engaged.
It’s a highly recommended piece for anyone who wants to savor a chamber-music masterpiece at leisure.
Piano Quartet No. 2 in E-flat major, Op. 87Antonín Dvořák
Antonín Dvořák, a leading composer of the Czech national school, wrote his Piano Quartet No.
2 in the summer of 1889.
The work showcases Dvořák’s mature command of chamber music, skillfully interweaving Czech folk elements with his personal emotions to create a lyrical yet complex musical texture.
Across its four movements—an impassioned, powerful first movement; a slow movement of profound emotional depth; a folk-inspired third movement; and a dramatic, conclusive fourth—each presents a distinct character.
This masterpiece offers deep inspiration and vivid imagery to its listeners, and is highly recommended for fans of chamber music.
String Quartet No. 12 in F major, Op. 96 “American,” II. MovementAntonín Dvořák
Dvořák, who was from the Czech lands, came to the United States to serve as director of the National Conservatory of Music in New York.
Living far from home in America, a country with a different history and culture, he became interested in African American spirituals and the music of Native Americans, and began incorporating these elements into his own works.
The piece known as “American” is one of the works in which you can feel the inspiration he drew from his life in the United States.
This movement, which is the second, is a moving slow movement: it sings out a plaintive melody reminiscent of a spiritual, then the cello takes it up and plays a Bohemian-style folk tune, creating a movement imbued with nostalgia.
Song of SpringAntonín Dvořák
Antonín Dvořák’s masterpiece “Spring Song.” This piece is included in Poetic Tone Pictures, Op.
85, B.
161.
Dvořák is known for his flowing, beautiful melodies, and “Spring Song” is no exception, featuring light, fluid lines.
While it is technically demanding for performers in both the right and left hands, listeners likely won’t perceive that intensity.
It’s recommended as background music for welcoming an elegant morning.
Be sure to check it out.
Dvořák’s Masterpieces: Popular Classical Music (41–50)
Slavonic Dances, Series II No. 1, Op. 72 No. 1Antonín Dvořák
This piano duet, which gracefully elevates the Czech folk dance “Odřezávák” (Odřezávák/Odřezák/Oděrák), captivates with harmonies woven by four hands and a powerful rhythmic drive.
Composed in 1886, inspired by traditional Slavic dances, it contrasts a bright, lively main theme with a gentle middle section to draw out a wide range of dynamic expression.
Rich in technical elements—contrasts of forte and piano, brilliant passagework, and more—it demands tight ensemble coordination, making it ideal for duet enthusiasts looking to deepen their collaborative skills.
Its dramatic arc, balancing strength and delicacy, also makes it a superb choice for recital performances.
Cello Concerto, Movement IIIAntonín Dvořák
Cello Concerto, Third Movement: Allegro moderato (moderately fast).
It features a rhythm reminiscent of Bohemian folk dances and a melody in the style of African American spirituals, conveying a dark yet powerful feel.
Performed by Serbian cellist Xenia Jankovic, conducted by Jansug Kakhidze, with the Budapest Symphony Orchestra.