Lachian Dances - Structure

Structure

The work is split into six separate dances:

1. Starodávný ("the Ancient One"), which starts with a bright 3/4 feel that moves quickly to introduce the first melody, played by the first violin. In this movement, the melodies are based around two Lachian dances, the "real dance" and the "ribbon" or "club dance". After the opening melody, the piece finds itself in an 2/4 allegro for the second half of the ribbon dance that is a common feature of Moravian music. This effect is repeated a number of times before drawing the dance to a close.

2. Požehnaný ("the Blessed"), in which one can see where Janáček took his inspiration from. The opening theme is played and then repeated throughout the whole movement, a trait that was considered essential in all Moravian dances.

3. Dymák, which portrays a blacksmith at work, with strong on beats mimicking the hammer striking hot steel. This movement also increases tempo considerably over the preceding two dances, starting at an allegro but increasing to prestissimo to indicate the hot and industrious work.

4. Starodávný II, which is clearly influenced by Dvořák by the use of orchestration, mood and writing. The melody itself is a version of a folk tune from the Bartoš collection and, although similar to the opening dance, varies slightly. This dance is also a lot slower compared to the opening and keeps a regular tempo through to the end helping maintain its grace.

5. Čeladenský, which was considered by Janáček to be exactly what a typical Czech dance should consist of in form, expression as well as style (ironically, the name may derive from Polish Czeladź or more probably from Lachian village Čeladná). Again, it uses the opening theme repeated in some form throughout the piece. As the piece progresses, this original theme is dovetailed with a second melody before two other melodies join the melee, which leads to a bright and lively end.

6. Finally, Pilky signifies the peasant's hurried preparations for the onset of winter where all of the firewood has to be sawed and stored. This final movement is in three very distinct sections: First, an andante con moto for the opening theme while the second, marked Più mosso is a bright flighty dance. The tempo is increased before returning to the original tempo and original theme but only to be built up again for a climactic finish.