Dvorak - Sonatina For Oboe/Piano (Softcover Book)

The Sonatina in G major, Op. 100, is another work that dates from Dvorak's stay in America. Its genesis can be traced to his visit to Minnehaha Falls, Minnesota in September 1893, where he was immediately inspired to write a melody that later became the basis for the Sonatina's slow movement. Later in December, his daughter Otilie wrote to her godfather Alois Göbl and reported that her father has recently completed a sonata for violin and piano intended for herself and her brother Tony. Eventually Dvorak dedicated the work to all six of his children, but he also told his publisher Simrock that the work would appeal to adults as well. Indeed, Dvorák succeeded in creating a work that, while not technically demanding, is pleasing to both performers and listeners. The work is in four compact movements and displays many of the characteristics, such as pentatonic motives, syncopation, and above all a gift for flowing melody, that are typical of Dvorak's mature style.