Antonín Dvořák
(1841-1904)

Violin Concerto in A Minor, Op. 53

Composed 1879-82

Dvořák’s Violin Concerto is a brilliant fusion of virtuosity, lyricism, and national spirit, born of a high-profile collaboration that never quite materialized. Commissioned by the great Austro-Hungarian violinist Joseph Joachim—who had recently premiered Brahms’ concerto—the piece was shaped through extensive correspondence between composer and soloist from 1879 to 1882. Dvořák revised the score significantly in response to Joachim’s suggestions, but despite a private rehearsal in 1882, Joachim never embraced the work publicly.

The concerto’s premiere was given by Czech violinist František Ondříček on October 14, 1883, in Prague. Ondříček’s performance marked the beginning of the concerto’s gradual acceptance, as he introduced it across Europe to growing acclaim.

While less well-known than Dvořák’s Cello Concerto, the Violin Concerto is equally rich in tunefulness, dramatic contrasts, and technical brilliance. Though trained as a violist, Dvořák had a deep understanding of the violin and wrote with flair and insight for the instrument. He also infused the work with the essence of Czech folk music—not through direct quotation, but by channeling its rhythms and moods. “Only in this way,” he said, “can a musician express the true sentiment of his people.”

The opening Allegro ma non troppo bypasses a traditional orchestral introduction: the soloist enters almost immediately, presenting a graceful version of the main theme. The music flows with improvisatory freedom, alternating between bold gestures and intimate lyricism. The Adagio ma non troppo follows without pause, offering one of Dvořák’s most heartfelt melodies, framed by lush harmonies and subtle orchestral colors.

The final movement, Allegro giocoso, bursts with joy. Rooted in the furiant, a lively Czech dance, it sparkles with rhythmic wit and exuberant interplay between soloist and orchestra. Syncopations, shifting meters, and folk-like themes lend the finale an infectious vitality. A rush of brilliance leads to four emphatic chords that cap the work with bold finality.

Despite its rocky path to the stage, Dvořák’s Violin Concerto remains a radiant testament to his gifts: a master melodist, an orchestrator of warmth and clarity, and a composer who gave voice to the soul of his homeland. 

Instrumentation – two flutes, two oboes, two clarinets, two bassoons, four horns, two trumpets, timpani, strings, and solo violin

Duration – 32 minutes

~ Kenneth Bean
Georg and Joyce Albers-Schonberg Assistant Conductor
Princeton Symphony Orchestra