Composer

:

Antonin Dvorák

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Bagatelle

Compose Date

:

May 1, 1878 - May 12, 1878

Publication Date

:

1880

First Performance

:

Feb 2, 1879

Average_duration

:

18:58

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

Antonin Dvorák's 'Bagatelles (5) for 2 violins, cello & harmonium, B. 79, Op. 47' is a chamber music work composed in 1878. It was premiered in Prague on January 17, 1879, with Dvorák himself playing the harmonium part. The piece consists of five short movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement, marked Allegro molto, is a lively and energetic piece in 2/4 time. It features a playful melody that is passed between the two violins and the cello, with the harmonium providing a steady accompaniment. The second movement, marked Tempo di minuetto, is a graceful and elegant dance in 3/4 time. It begins with a delicate melody played by the violins, which is then taken up by the cello. The harmonium provides a gentle, pulsing accompaniment throughout. The third movement, marked Allegretto scherzando, is a light and playful scherzo in 2/4 time. It features a lively, syncopated melody that is passed between the instruments, with the harmonium providing a bouncy, rhythmic accompaniment. The fourth movement, marked Andante con moto, is a slow and lyrical piece in 4/4 time. It begins with a plaintive melody played by the cello, which is then taken up by the violins. The harmonium provides a soft, sustained accompaniment that adds to the melancholy mood of the piece. The final movement, marked Allegro assai, is a fast and lively piece in 2/4 time. It features a driving, rhythmic melody that is passed between the instruments, with the harmonium providing a pulsing, energetic accompaniment. The piece ends with a flourish, bringing the work to a thrilling conclusion. Overall, Dvorák's 'Bagatelles' is a charming and delightful work that showcases the composer's skill in writing for small ensembles. The piece is characterized by its lively melodies, playful rhythms, and elegant harmonies, and is a testament to Dvorák's mastery of the chamber music genre.

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