Dvorak wrote this piece in 1893, soon after getting to America, newly appointed Director of National Conservatory of Music. Influenced by great spaces and nature and also nostalgia for his European roots.
Premiered at Carnegie Hall 1893.
Dvorak was influenced by Traditional Spirituals. The opening Adagio contains music similar to Swing Low Sweet Chariot. The second movement, Largo, contains the themes to which a Dvorak student, William Arms Fisher wrote the words – ‘Goin’ Home’, published 1922 – also a spiritual feel.
This haunting melody is now part of New Mill’s repertoire.
Many will remember the Hovis ad.
