Composer

:

Bedrich Smetana

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Tone Poem

Compose Date

:

1875

Publication Date

:

1890

Average_duration

:

9:44

Sárka, JB 1:112/3 is a symphonic poem composed by Bedrich Smetana in 1883. It is the third piece in his cycle of six symphonic poems titled Má vlast (My Homeland). The piece is named after the legendary warrior princess Sárka, who is a central figure in Czech folklore. The premiere of Sárka took place on November 5, 1883, in Prague, conducted by Adolf Cech. The piece is divided into three movements, each depicting a different aspect of the story of Sárka. The first movement, titled "The Warrior's Oath," begins with a solemn and majestic theme played by the brass section. This theme represents the oath taken by the warriors to defend their homeland against invaders. The music then becomes more agitated and intense, as the warriors prepare for battle. The second movement, titled "Sárka's Seduction," is more lyrical and romantic in nature. It begins with a beautiful melody played by the strings, which represents Sárka's seduction of the enemy warrior Ctirad. The music becomes more passionate and intense as the two characters fall in love. The final movement, titled "The Battle and Sárka's Revenge," is the most dramatic and intense of the three. It begins with a frenzied and chaotic theme played by the entire orchestra, representing the battle between the Czech warriors and the invading army. The music then becomes more focused on Sárka, as she seeks revenge for the death of her lover. The piece ends with a triumphant and heroic theme played by the brass section, representing the victory of the Czechs over their enemies. Overall, Sárka is a powerful and emotional piece of music that captures the spirit of Czech folklore and the struggle for independence. Smetana's use of orchestration and thematic development is masterful, and the piece remains a beloved part of the Czech classical music repertoire.

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