Anton Dvorak - His Music and His Life
Born: September 8, 1841 - Nelahozeves, nr Kralupy Died: May 1, 1904 – Prague Dvorak Quick Facts: Johannes Brahms once wrote a letter praising and exulting Dvorak’s music; they later became great friends. After moving to America in 1892, Dvorak spent his summer vacation in the small town of Spillville, Iowa in 1893, because of it’s mainly Czech population. Dvorak’s greatest musical success was achieved by the world premier of his New World Symphony in Carnegie Hall on December 3, 1893. Dvorak's Family Background: Dvorak’s father, Frantisek was a butcher and an innkeeper. He played the zither for fun and entertainment, but later played it professionally. His mother, Anna, came from Uhy. Antonin Dvorak was the oldest of eight children. Childhood Years: In 1847, Dvorak began taking voice and violin lessons from Joseph Spitz. Dvorak took to the violin quickly and soon began playing in church and village bands. In 1853, Dvorak’s parents s...