The recent loss of Dvořák's second child is apparent in his works from this period. The quartet, like the Stabat Mater and Piano Trio No. 2, is sad and nostalgic. Although nominally in a major key, themes are often presented in a minor key. The expression of melancholy and sorrow is apparent throughout the work.
| Date of composition | 1876 (During 20 january and 4th February 1876) in Prague, Czech Republic |
| Premiered | 1890, December 29th |
| First published | 1888 |
| Type | String Quartet |
| Tonality | E Major |
| Catalogue | Op. 80 |
| Approx. duration | 28 minutes |
| Instruments |
Viola
Cello 2x Violin |
| Autotranslations beta |
Antonín Dvořák: Quatuor à cordes n°8 en mi majeur, Op. 80 Antonín Dvořák: Quartetto d'archi n. 8 in mi maggiore, Op. 80 Antonín Dvořák: Streichquartett Nr. 8 E-dur, Op. 80 |