Antonín Dvořák (1841-1904) was a virtuoso Bohemian composer. Even though Bedřich Smetana, his senior, had already begun to integrate Czech folk material into the 19th-century music, it was Dvořák who produced a series of popular works that won a truly international acclaim.
If you want to get to know Dvořák’s heritage better, you should visit his museum located in one of the most beautiful Baroque buildings in Prague’s New Town.
The Villa America, which resembles a charming jewel-box and is surrounded with splendid sculptures, was built by K.I.Dienzenhofer in 1717-1720. Even though the composer himself never actually lived here, this collection showcases lots of interesting artefacts. Among them, you will find correspondence, musical scores, personal belongings and instruments – such as Dvořák's own viola and piano.
As you follow the exhibition, you will get an idea of the most important stages of the composer’s life – including the years Dvořák spent in America, where he also encouraged his students to explore the traditional folk music.
From May to October, in the gorgeous Great Hall with the 18th-century frescoes, the museum holds regular concerts celebrating Dvořák’s enormous impact on the classical music world.
