Rondo for Cello and Orchestra (Dvořák)

The Rondo for Cello and Orchestra in G minor, Op. 94, is a composition by Antonín Dvořák.[1] In 1892, Dvorak toured of Bohemia and Moravia, accompanied by violinist Ferdinand Lachner and cellist Hanuš Wihan. The three musicians would perform Dvořák's piano trios (with him at the piano), as well as solo pieces for each musician. For the tour, Dvořák wrote the Rondo in G minor, originally with piano accompaniment; the primary motivation was Wihan's need of a piece that would show off his abilities.[2] He moreover arranged the eighth of his Slavonic Dances and Silent Woods from the cycle From the Bohemian Forest for the tour. He later wrote an arrangement of the rondo for small orchestra.[3]

Rondo for Cello and Orchestra
by Antonín Dvořák
Cover of 1894 Simrock edition
KeyG minor
OpusOp. 94;
B. 171 (with piano),
B. 181 (with orchestra)
StyleRomantic period
FormRondo
Composed1891 (with piano),
1893 (with orchestra)
DedicationHanuš Wihan
MovementsOne

Structure

The Rondo contains three themes, presented in the regular rondo form ABACABA.[3] The Rondo's G minor key helps the main theme create a somewhat melancholy atmosphere, though it is nevertheless spirited and dance-like, like much of Dvořák's chamber music.

First theme

The first section is followed by a brief passage wherein the cello carries a more lyrical and upbeat passage.

Second theme

Soon, however, the mood changes, becoming more uneasy until the final, virtuosic section. In the third section the cello soars exuberantly into its high registers.

Third theme

Afterwards, the return of the lyrical section sees a final statement of the first theme, this time tinged with gloom, and the piece draws to a quiet and peaceful close.[2]

References
  1. "Rondo in g minor, Op. 94, B. 171 (for cello and piano) - Antonín Dvořák". Earsense.org. Retrieved 2021-08-27.
  2. Emily Stoops. Antonin Dvorák: Rondo for cello & orchestra in G minor, B. 181 (Op. 94) at AllMusic
  3. "Rondo for Cello and Orchestra". Antonin Dvorak.cz. Retrieved 2021-08-27.
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