Composer

:

Antonin Dvorák

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Sextet

Compose Date

:

May 14, 1878 - May 27, 1878

Publication Date

:

1879

First Performance

:

Nov 9, 1879

Average_duration

:

33:07

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Antonin Dvorák's String Sextet in A major, B. 80, Op. 48, was composed in 1878 and premiered in Prague on March 16, 1879. The piece is comprised of four movements and has a total running time of approximately 35 minutes. The first movement, marked Allegro moderato, begins with a gentle, lyrical melody in the first violin, which is then passed to the second violin and viola. The cello and bass then enter with a more rhythmic accompaniment, leading to a more energetic section with a faster tempo and more complex harmonies. The movement ends with a return to the opening melody, played by the first violin. The second movement, marked Dumka: Andante con moto, is a melancholic and introspective piece, featuring a mournful melody in the first violin. The movement is structured as a series of variations on this theme, with each instrument taking turns playing the melody and adding their own embellishments. The third movement, marked Furiant: Molto vivace, is a lively and energetic dance in a fast 3/4 time signature. The movement features a syncopated rhythm and a playful melody that is passed between the instruments. The final movement, marked Finale: Allegro vivace, is a joyful and exuberant piece that brings the sextet to a rousing conclusion. The movement features a lively and rhythmic main theme that is developed throughout the movement, with each instrument taking turns playing the melody and adding their own flourishes. Overall, Dvorák's String Sextet in A major is a masterful work that showcases the composer's skill in writing for strings. The piece is characterized by its lyrical melodies, complex harmonies, and rhythmic vitality, and is a testament to Dvorák's status as one of the greatest composers of the Romantic era.

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