Má vlast
Definition
My Homeland — the cycle of six symphonic poems for orchestra by Smetana composed 1872–79. Arguably the single most important work in Czech music, it depicts scenes and legends from Bohemia: Vyšehrad (the ancient citadel of Prague), Vltava (the Moldau river), Šárka (a warrior maiden), From Bohemian Fields and Groves, Tábor (the Hussite stronghold), and Blaník (the mountain where the knights of St Wenceslas sleep). The cycle was composed at the same time as the Rêves for piano, and the same depth of patriotic feeling is present in both works.
Interpretive Guidance
Understanding Má vlast illuminates Smetana's piano music, especially Rêves, Czech Dances, and Memories of Bohemia. The piano works share the same landscape and legend: the same Bohemia is present in both. When learning the Czech Dances II or Rêves, think of the same emotional world — the rolling countryside, the ancient legends, the longing for a homeland.