Belgian National Orchestra & Feddeck

In the new format Symponic Date, presenter Thomas Vanderveken reveals the secrets behind the greatest symphonies in the repertoire. In one hour, you'll gain a fresh perspective on those masterpieces.

For this Symphonic Date, he explores Dvořák’s Ninth Symphony, known as the "New World" Symphony. Dvořák composed this symphony in 1892, during his tenure as director of the National Conservatory of Music of America. This unique institution in the United States promoted music education for all, including women and people of color—a rarity in the post-Civil War era. During this time, Dvořák had the opportunity to hear artists such as Harry Burleigh, a Black baritone and composer, who introduced him to Negro spirituals. Inspired by these melodies, Dvořák crafted the powerful and lyrical themes of his Ninth Symphony, which would become one of the greatest successes of his career.