The Moldau

Vltava (The Moldau) is the second and most famous symphonic poem from Smetana's cycle Má vlast ("My Homeland"). Composed in 1874, it musically depicts the journey of the Vltava River as it flows through the Bohemian countryside, from its two small mountain springs to its majestic passage through Prague before joining the Elbe. Through vivid orchestral writing and richly descriptive melodies, Smetana transforms the river into a powerful symbol of the Czech landscape, history, and national identity.

The work follows the river's course through a series of evocative scenes, including forests, meadows, a rustic wedding celebration, moonlit waters where water nymphs dance, and the dramatic rapids of St. John's. Its broad, flowing principal theme has become one of the most recognizable melodies in classical music. Frequently arranged for solo piano and other ensembles, The Moldau remains a masterpiece of musical storytelling and one of the defining works of nineteenth-century program music.