Dvorák’s famous Symphony from the New World abounds in melodic turns and phrases that call up the atmosphere of “Indian melodies” and spirituals. Among them are pentatonic (five-tone) tunes, and syncopated rhythms. Tender melodies from this same sound-world also reside in this Sonatina for violin and piano op. 100, written during his first residency in America between 1892 and 1894, transforming the four-movement Sonatina into a charming chamber-music piece. Dvorák dedicated the work to his children Otilie (aged 15) and Antonin (10), and it is in keeping with the abilities of the young pianist daughter and little violinist son. Nevertheless, Dvorák writes: “grown-up adults should also be able to take enjoyment in these pieces in the same way that they can”. The carefully-prepared Henle Urtext edition boasts an extensive preface concerning the source materials, and is based on the autograph and the first edition published by Simrock.
