A First Book of Dvorák

Beginners often find the compositions of Antonin Dvo ák frustratingly difficult to play, but this introductory volume provides an accessible and satisfying entrée to the Czech composer's oeuvre. Excerpts from his more abstract works are presented in manageable samples, with simplified keys and fingerings, and the pieces are presented in gradually increasing order of difficulty.

There are an assortment of Dvo ák's well-known and much-loved compositions. Humoresques is a piano cycle inspired by his sojourn in the United States. Slavonic Dances was influenced by Brahms' HungarianDances. Flavorful pieces rooted in folk music, including excerpts from the Czech Suite and Prague Waltzes and a pair of lively mazurkas are featured. Other highlights include 'Songs My Mother Taught Me,' 'The Noon Witch,' and pieces from cello and violin concertos and symphonic movements. All thirty-six selections are available as downloadable MP3s.