Sometimes it takes an outsider to point out treasures hidden in our midst. The distinguished Bohemian composer Antonín Dvořák, associated with musical nationalism through his works inspired by Czech folkloric sources, insisted that American composers must pay attention to the boundless riches of indigenous and Black American music. During his time as director of the National Conservatory of Music in New York City from 1892 to 1895, he worked with Harry Burleigh, a distinguished Black American composer who introduced Dvořák to spirituals, and encountered Native American music during a summertime visit to Spillville, Iowa, in 1893. In response, Dvořák produced some of his most popular, influential works—not only the celebrated “New World” Symphony, but also the “American” Quartet and Quintet he composed in Spillville. Completing this illuminating program is the delectable Sonatina, Op. 100—a work the great violinist Fritz Kreisler was known to play under the title Indian Lament.

EPSG:4326

Dvořák in America

Southern Vermont Arts Center

DCWS once again performs at the Great Lakes Chamber Music Festival, sharing the stage with world-renowned chamber music luminaries. 

Hesper Quartet

Jul 23, 2026

Dvořák in America

Jun 11, 2023

Great Lakes Chamber Music Festival

Hesper Quartet