Des Moines Symphony with Chopin and Dvořak

Founded in Des Moines, Iowa in 1937, the Des Moines Symphony is a leading regional orchestra. Renowned for its classical "Masterworks" and popular "Pops" concerts, it earned an ASCAP Award for adventurous programming and collaborations. The Symphony also established its own music academy, making it a major Midwest arts institution.

Frédéric Chopin, a Polish Romantic composer and piano virtuoso, was born in Żelazowa Wola. He revolutionized piano music with his lyrical melodies, emotional depth, and technical brilliance. Known for his nocturnes, polonaises, mazurkas, waltzes, études, and ballades, his compositions like the "Fantaisie-Impromptu" and "Heroic Polonaise" are celebrated globally. Chopin's unique style, blending Polish folk elements with Romantic intensity, profoundly influenced piano repertoire.