This year’s 3MBS Marathon showcases the music of Antonín Dvořák in an immersive, all-day experience at Melbourne Recital Centre. Across six concerts, some of Australia’s finest musicians will present the Czech composer’s best-loved music, as well as some hidden gems. We spoke to Artistic Director and cellist Chris Howlett about what he’s got in store.

Chris Howlett, 3MBS, Dvořák Marathon, DvořákArtistic Director of 3MBS’s Dvořák Marathon, Chris Howlett

What is it about Dvořák’s music that still speaks to audiences today, more than 100 years after his death?

Dvořák’s music is one of depth, character and passion, that takes influences from the world that he lived in. For me this writing, which is at the highest artistic level, will resonate with the audiences of today and for many years to come.

What can you learn about his music through this kind of immersive, marathon experience?

An immersive day like the marathon gives the listener a real cross section of a composer’s musical output, across musical genres and their lifespan. This gives unique insight into the compositional language and development of the composer over his lifespan. We will present solo, chamber, choral and symphonic works at the marathon and...