Dvorák regarded himself first and foremost as a Bohemian composer, though it proved to be a stumbling block when trying to conquer the international market with his operas. Thanks to the anti-Czech feeling in Vienna at the time, it was impossible for him to get a fair hearing there. In spite of his intention to find a subject with a more international flavour, Dvorák's eighth opera proved to be the most Bohemian opera he ever composed. Donald Macleod introduces an excerpt from it plus one of three concert overtures inspired by the countryside around Dvorák's summer retreat, and the evocative piano trio destined to become one of the most enduring of all his chamber works. Show less