In Good Faith

Available for 29 days

Kate Molleson takes a look at Dvořák’s religious life. Antonin Dvořák was one of the most heartfelt tunesmiths in classical music - a man who not only brought the sound of Czech folklore to the world, but also had an indelible impact on the musical nationhood of America. As a character he was sometimes shy, sometimes melancholy, routinely homesick and deeply passionate. Through the week Kate Molleson explores five windows onto Dvořák’s soul, aspects of life that were really central to his convictions and his music. Today, we hear about another key part of Dvořák's personality - his faith. Raised Catholic, he was steadfast throughout his life, and would sign off each manuscript with 'God be thanked'. Dvořák thought of his faith and creativity as inextricably linked, and it was through prayer that he found his direction in moments of troubled soul-searching, answers to ethical dilemmas and a refuge in times of deep personal pain. Prelude in D major Peter Frisee, organ On the Holy Mountain (Poetic Tone Pictures) Leif Ove Andsnes, piano Stabat Mater: IV. Fac ut ardeat cor meum, V. Tui nati vulnerati Jongmin Park, bass Prague Philharmonic Choir Czech Philharmonic Orchestra Jiří Bělohlávek, conductor Symphony No 7 (2nd movement - Poco adagio) London Symphony Orchestra Colin Davis, conductor Requiem: Confutatis Collegium Vocale Gent Royal Flemish Philharmonic Philippe Herreweghe, conductor Biblical Songs 1-5 Jan Martiník, bass Czech Philharmonic Orchestra Jiří Bělohlávek, conductor Produced by Amelia Parker for BBC Audio Wales and West