Talk & Tea: Prokofiev & Dvořák

The Performance

As a precocious and ambitious young pianist and composer, Prokofiev sought fame outside of his native Russia. He wrote for himself as soloist in his Piano Concerto No. 3 and premiered the piece with the Chicago Symphony in 1921. Despite success abroad and the threat of violence in Russia, Prokofiev was lured back to Russia in the 1930s and suffered under the reign of Stalin until they both died on the same day in 1953. Even at the peak of his career, his journey is one of success and setbacks. Like Prokofiev, Dvořák also found success in the USA. The English-speaking countries adored Dvořák but his growing fame in Germany and Austria was often hampered by political tensions with the Czech lands. Despite all odds, Dvořák taught himself to write music in his 20s, helped develop a national sound for his country and became one of the most successful and highly paid composers in the world.

About Talk & Tea

Hamilton Phil Composer Advisor and Ambassador, Abigail Richardson-Schulte, takes audiences on a lively journey through the lives and work of the composers on the program. The stories of the rise, trials and fame of these composers are fascinating glimpses into the realities of musical life from past eras. Each Talk & Tea is from 11:00AM-12:30PM and includes a 15-minute drop in at rehearsal.