A Gentle Stroll in the Garden of Classical Music, Part 2 of 2

Today, please join us as we continue to enjoy dance music written by classical composers. We’ll start with composer Antonín Dvořák’s Slavonic Dance in E minor, Op. 72 No. 2. Being of Czech background, Dvořák often incorporated Bohemian and Moravian folk elements into his music, thus distinguishing himself from other composers. The piece we’ll hear today is one of his most famous and beloved Slavonic dances, a sentimental piece with a relativly cheerful middle section. The performance is by the Russian String Orchestra conducted by Misha Rachlevsky.

Originating in 13th-century Germany and Austria and with a beat of “one, two, three; one two, three,” the waltz has become one of the world’s most popular ballroom dances. Now, let’s enjoy the waltz from Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s Serenade for Strings, Op. 48. The piece is infused with elegance, grace, and a sense of playfulness. The performance is by Estonia’s Tallinn Chamber Orchestra.

Lastly, we present Tritsch-Tratsch Polka by Johann Strauss II. Known as “The Waltz King,” Johann Strauss II created more than 500 pieces of dance music. Among them, the most famous are “The Blue Danube,” “Voices of Spring,” “Emperor Waltz,” and the piece that we’ll now listen to, “Tritsch-Tratsch Polka.” Translated as “Chit-chat polka,” it’s a fun and humorous piece. The version we’ll hear is adapted for balalaika, a Russian musical instrument, played by Anastasia Tyurina, and accompanied by the National Academic Orchestra of Folk Instruments of Russia. Please enjoy!

Our heartfelt appreciation to the world’s musicians, past and present, for their talents that bring us great joy and comfort. May their noble efforts be recognized, valued, and respected by all.