The Czech composer Antonin Dvorak (1841-1904) has written many pieces that are mainstays of the orchestral repertoire. An underlying spirit of vitality and cheerful optimism is almost always evident in his music, making it a joy to hear. Dvorak's wrote the Carnival Overture in 1891 as the middle work in a set of three overtures. As a group they were titled Nature, Life and Love. The three pieces were first performed in Prague on April 20, 1892 with Dvorak leading the orchestra.

The Carnival Overture bubbles with energy and exuberance, except for a poignant, haunting melody in the English horn and solo violin. Like much of Dvorak's music, it abounds with dance rhythms and folk-music influences from his native Bohemia, the rich heartland now known as the Czech Republic.

Dvorak wrote his own program note describing the story behind the music: "The wanderer reaches the city at nightfall, where a carnival of pleasure reigns supreme. On every side is heard the clangor of instruments, mingled with shouts of joy and the unrestrained hilarity of people giving vent to their feelings in the songs and dance tunes."