Ottokar Novacek is a composer who has fascinated David Johnstone – composer of a (formerly) famed ‘Perpetuum Mobile’ but… what else did he do? Well, he was a very competent violinist and violist from Serbia, emigrating to the U.S.A. at the end of the 19thh century. He had already written a number of original works – including a Piano Concerto – when a heart condition meant he had to reduce, almost curtail, his performing work. He therefore dedicated himself to composition. His pieces have a ‘salon music’ feel but of the highest artistic level. The following ‘Eight Bulgarian Dances’ are almost unknown to the general public yet wonderful little creations, just a little side-step from the Dvorak Slavonic Dances. Johnstone thought it worthwhile bringing these pieces to the attention of cellists, therefore by just a change of tessiture and a few other small changes they are now possible on cello, with piano accompaniment.

For the music parts to both instruments see:

Pieces 1 to 4: https://johnstone-music.com/producto/novacek-bulgarian-dances-op-6-book-1-cello-and-piano

Pieces 5 to 8: https://johnstone-music.com/producto/novacek-bulgarian-dances-op-6-book-2-cello-and-piano