Five essential works by Dvořák

Symphony No. 9, ‘New World’

Dvořák’s attempt to write a symphony using native American music and spirituals has ear-catching melodies
and evocative orchestration.

Recommended recording:
Baltimore Symphony Orchestra/Marin Alsop
Naxos 8.570714

• The 20 Greatest Symphonies of all time

Slavonic Dances

Dvořák originally composed his zestful tribute to the folk music of his homeland for piano duet. Such was the success of the first series that he wrote a sequel.

Recommended recording:
Czech Philharmonic Orchestra/Charles Mackerras
Supraphon SU 3808-2

• Six of the best lesser-known pieces by Soviet composers

Rusalka

Dvořák's most famous opera is widely known for the title character’s beautiful 'Invocation to the Moon'.

Recommended recording:
Ana María Martínez, Larissa Diadkova; Glyndebourne Chorus; LPO/Jiří Bělohlávek
Glyndebourne GFOCD 007-09

• A guide to Shostakovich's Symphony No. 7

String Quartet No. 12, ‘American’

Dvořák composed string quartets during most of his career. His American Quartet took inspiration from spirituals.

Recommended recording:
Prazák Quartet Praga
PR 250110

• What is the difference between a violin and a viola?

Cello Concerto

Arguably the greatest of the Romantic cello concertos – an impassioned hymn to his homeland and a poignant tribute to his recently deceased sister-in-law.

Recommended recording:
Pieter Wispelwey; Budapest Festival Orchestra/Iván Fischer
Channel CCSSA 25807

• Six of the best cello works