In Dvorak's Footsteps

In Dvorak's Footsteps is really two books in one. In order to fully investigate Dvorak's influence on American musical development as well as discover the real emotions that Dvorak felt when he composed the famous From the New World Symphony, Ivanov travelled in Dvorak's footsteps: first to New York City where the composer had lived while serving as the Director of the National Conservatory of Music; then to Spillville, Iowa, the Dvorak summer haven he loved so well; and finally to Chicago, the site of Dvorak's triumph as a conductor and composer at the 1893 World's Fair. Ivanov presents his and Dvorak's experiences in alternating chapters thereby presenting fascinating contrasts and comparisons of events a century apart. Throughout, the author gives us intimate glimpses into the Dvorak family's life in the New World, the musical affairs of the late 1800s, and above all, the tremendous impact by Dvorak's teaching and writing on this century's culture. The result of this well-researched book is a portrait of this musical genius so convincing that we feel we know him. His great kindness, his industry, his love for his family and country, and his insistence on treating all people alike shine through the factual information presented.