This generously-filled disc presents more than 78 minutes of Dvorák orchestral miniatures, of which only Silent Woods is likely to be immediately recognized by most listeners (it, as well as the Rondo for cello and orchestra, usually winds up coupled on disc with Dvorák’s Cello Concerto). Coming up second is the American Suite, which features psuedo-ethnic stylings similar to those found in the composer’s New World Symphony and “American” String Quartet.
The “old world” is stylishly evoked in Dvorák’s clever and engaging Five Prague Waltzes, as well as in the E-flat Polonaise, B-flat Polka, and the Mazurka for Violin and Orchestra. The earliest work in this collection, Seven Interludes for small orchestra, also is the rarest. While the thematic material doesn’t achieve the ingenuity and individuality of his later work, Dvorák makes it interesting by varying the mood, atmosphere, and dramatic content of the movements, which range in style from terse conflict to lyrical meditation to joyous celebration.
Finally, the most arresting work on the program is the beautiful Nocturne in B. Dmitry Yablonsky slightly misses the mark here–his too-swift tempos diminish the enchantment usually created by this music. Everywhere else however, the conductor’s instincts are dead-on as he leads idiomatic, vibrant, and colorful performances with the Russian Philharmonic. The recording is a little lacking in warmth and presence, but otherwise it sounds fine. This release is self-recommending for Dvorák specialists, but others who enjoy gorgeous, finely crafted, and stimulating orchestral music should hear it as well.
