Speaker: James Griesheimer presents Czech Composers Influence on German Classical Music

On Wednesday evening, November 19th from 6:30 to 8:00 PM, Dr. James Griesheimer, retired music professor from Luther College, will present on how the rich Czech music tradition influenced German classical music composers. Dr. Griesheimer will examine these Czech influences over recent centuries.

Czech influence on German classical music is seen through the adoption of Czech folk music, the career support German musicians gave to Czech composers like Dvořák and Smetana, and the historical context of the Austro-Hungarian Empire where composers were exposed to both German and Czech traditions.

While the influence was largely a dialogue and support network between German and Czech composers, figures like Smetana and Dvořák integrated Czech national identity into the classical tradition, which in turn enriched the broader European musical landscape.

Dr. Griesheimer’s presentation will be followed by informal dialogue and discussion with refreshments, desserts and cookies.