What is the subject of The Moldau?
The second, Vltava (The Moldau), occupied him from November 20 through December 8—a span of nineteen days (he noted in his diary). Its subject is the Bohemian river that flows north through Prague on its way to join the Elbe, which in turn leads its waters to the North Sea.
What does The Moldau symbolize?
Vltava, better known by its German name, Die Moldau (or The Moldau), is a symphonic poem that is patriotic in every sense of the word. It is one of six movements of a larger work called Má vlast which means “My Homeland” or “My Country”.
What was The Moldau written for?
Bedrich Smetana composed The Moldau as one of six symphonic poems in the cycle Má vlast (My Country), which he envisioned as a musical portrayal of the landscapes and stories of his homeland. The symphonic poem The Moldau portrays in sound the movement of the Vltava River, also known as the Moldau River.
What is the theme of Vltava?
The main theme of Vltava, which is probably the most popular piece from My Country and perhaps of Czech music as a whole, is the composer’s celebration of Czech nature, which he sees as an essential and beautiful part of life in his homeland.
What is the musical theme of the Moldau?
The Musical Themes. The opening of The Moldau is played on the flute and clarinet, representing the two different springs. They play rapid, rippling notes that are tossed back and forth, eventually landing in the lower string instruments. Thus the springs have combined and broadened into a stream.
How do the violins play in the Moldau?
They play rapid, rippling notes that are tossed back and forth, eventually landing in the lower string instruments. Thus, the springs have combined and broadened into a stream. The violins then begin to play the main melody of ”The Moldau” that represents the river itself.
What instruments are used in the Moldau by Smetana?
Each stage of the journey is depicted by Smetana with a musical motive that paints a vivid picture of the scene. The opening of ”The Moldau” is played on the flute and clarinet, representing the two different springs.
Why is ”the Moldau” important?
”The Moldau” is not just important for its creativity and beauty. Smetana was composing at a time of growing nationalism in the arts. Composers from all countries began to explore the music of their own people and land. They found pride in celebrating their unique culture.