Chris Mullins rightly draws our attention to Dvorak's earlier symphony no.3.

>The second half of the program was given to a Dvorak Symphony. "Number
>9," you ask? No. "Oh, then, 7." No. "So it was 8." No.
>This is why I bought a ticket. It was Symphony 3. I can't think of any
>other mostly unplayed symphony with more memorable themes. I could feel
>half the audience sit up as the first tune sang out within moments of
>the symphony's start. Such delight.

I once commented in the past that there is delightful music in these
earlier symphonies and that Dvorak's symphonies did not commence with
no. 7.  Symphony No. 3 mentioned by Chris is influenced by Wagner.  I
especially draw your attention to the incredible middle section of the
Adagio (2nd movement) where a heavenly march develops.  Symphonies 4-6
are also delightful.

I would suggest purchasing the complete set of Dvorak's symphonies with
Kubelik/BPO (the performance of no. 6 has been especially praised).

David Rothstein
Israel