Composer

:

Antonin Dvorák

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Quintet

Compose Date

:

Aug 18, 1887 - Oct 3, 1887

Publication Date

:

1888

First Performance

:

Jan 6, 1888

Average_duration

:

37:51

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

Antonin Dvorák's Piano Quintet in A major, B. 155, Op. 81, is a chamber music work composed in 1887. It was premiered on January 6, 1888, in Prague, with the composer himself at the piano. The quintet is divided into four movements and has a total duration of approximately 40 minutes. The first movement, marked Allegro, opens with a lively and energetic theme presented by the strings. The piano then enters with a more subdued melody, which gradually builds in intensity and leads to a powerful climax. The movement features a number of contrasting themes and textures, including a lyrical second theme and a playful scherzo section. The second movement, marked Dumka: Andante con moto, is a melancholic and introspective piece that showcases Dvorák's gift for melody. The movement is structured as a series of variations on a simple folk-like theme, with each variation exploring different moods and emotions. The third movement, marked Scherzo: Furiant, is a lively and rhythmic dance in the traditional Czech furiant style. The movement features a number of virtuosic passages for both the piano and the strings, as well as a contrasting trio section that provides a moment of respite before the return of the main theme. The final movement, marked Finale: Allegro, is a joyful and exuberant piece that brings the quintet to a rousing conclusion. The movement features a number of lively themes and virtuosic passages, as well as a beautiful and lyrical second theme that provides a moment of calm before the final coda. Overall, Dvorák's Piano Quintet in A major is a masterful work that showcases the composer's gift for melody, rhythm, and orchestration. The quintet is characterized by its rich harmonies, lively rhythms, and beautiful melodies, and is considered one of the greatest works in the chamber music repertoire.

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