Dvořák Festival Celebrates 18 Years
The Dvořák Praha festival began its 18th year on Friday. The opening concert featured familiar pieces: Dvořák’s Cello Concerto in H minor and the New World symphony – a “best of” selection of some of the most-played music in the world. The Frankfurt Radio Orchestra, led by Alain Altignolu, performed, with French cellist gautier Capuçon as the soloist.
Antonín Dvořák didn’t originally want to write music for the cello. He said it was tough. But as he prepared to return home from his time teaching at the New York conservatory in 1884,he wanted to express his longing for his homeland in a musical piece. he surprisingly chose the cello, saying he himself was surprised by the decision.
The piece gained a strong reputation even before its first performance.Dvořák shared the score with Johannes Brahms, a mentor who had helped him early in his career. Brahms famously said, “Why didn’t I know it was possible to write a cello concerto like this? If I had, I would have done it long ago!”
Dvořák’s Cello Concerto in H minor quickly became very popular and is now considered one of the greatest cello concertos ever written. It remains one of Dvořák’s most beloved works and one of the most frequently performed classical pieces. The composer, who hadn’t explored the cello as a solo instrument before, seemed genuinely surprised by its success.
Prague Anticipates the Performance
The Prague audience eagerly awaited the performance of this iconic work by French cellist Gautier Capuçon and the Frankfurt Radio Orchestra. The orchestra is known for its unique sound, precise playing, and excellent dynamics.
The orchestra performed under the direction of its chief conductor, Alain Altignolu – a French maestro who has achieved success on major stages worldwide. He also serves as director of the Royal Theater La Monnaie in Brussels and the artistic director of the Colmar International Festival. His conducting style perfectly complements the symphonic music.
A Distinct Sound
Like many national orchestras, the Frankfurt Radio Orchestra has a specific sound.