MUSIC

Overview of Old Czech Music

Old Czech music is a rich tapestry woven from sacred chants, folk traditions, and classical innovation.
Its roots stretch back over a millennium, beginning with medieval liturgical music like the hymn “Hospodine, pomiluj ny” (“Lord, Have Mercy on Us”).
Through the Renaissance and Baroque periods, Czech composers developed distinct styles, blending European influences with local folklore.
The 19th century saw the rise of Czech national music, led by composers who infused their works with patriotic themes, folk melodies, and vivid depictions of the Bohemian landscape.
This era produced some of the most iconic figures in classical music, whose symphonies and operas continue to resonate worldwide.

Bedřich Smetana (1824–1884)

Smetana is considered the father of Czech national music.
His most famous work is the symphonic cycle Má vlast (“My Homeland”), which includes the beloved tone poem Vltava (“The Moldau”)—a musical journey along the river that flows through Bohemia.
Other notable symphonic poems include Richard III and Wallenstein’s Camp, showcasing his dramatic flair.
In opera, Smetana’s masterpiece The Bartered Bride remains a staple of Czech repertoire, celebrated for its lively dances and folk-inspired melodies.
He also composed poignant chamber music like the Piano Trio in G Minor, written in memory of his daughter.

Antonín Dvořák (1841–1904)

Dvořák brought Czech music to the global stage, blending folk elements with symphonic grandeur.
His most famous work is the Symphony No. 9 in E Minor, known as “From the New World”, composed during his stay in America and inspired by Native American and African American music.
Other symphonies like the Seventh and Eighth are praised for their emotional depth and melodic richness.
Dvořák’s vocal works include the Biblical Songs and Gypsy Songs, while his Slavonic Dances remain iconic orchestral pieces.
He also composed operas such as Rusalka, a lyrical fairy tale that features the haunting aria “Song to the Moon.”

Leoš Janáček (1854–1928)

Janáček was a visionary who captured the rhythms of Czech speech and folk music in his compositions.
His orchestral rhapsody Taras Bulba and the powerful Sinfonietta are among his most celebrated symphonic works.
Janáček’s operas, including Jenůfa, Káťa Kabanová, and The Cunning Little Vixen, are known for their emotional intensity and innovative musical language.
He also wrote expressive chamber music like the String Quartet No. 2 “Intimate Letters”, inspired by his passionate correspondence with Kamila Stösslová.
Janáček’s music is deeply rooted in Moravian folk traditions, yet strikingly modern in its structure and spirit.

Overview of Late 20th Century Czech Music

Following the classical and folk traditions of earlier centuries, Czech music in the late 20th century embraced pop, rock, and theatrical styles.
This era was shaped by both political change and cultural renaissance, with artists navigating censorship while captivating audiences across Europe.
From romantic ballads to energetic stage performances, Czech singers became national treasures and international stars.
The Velvet Revolution of 1989 marked a turning point, allowing for greater artistic freedom and ushering in a golden age of Czech pop.

Karel Gott (1939–2019)

Known as the “Golden Voice of Prague”, Karel Gott was the most celebrated Czech singer of the 20th century.
His career spanned six decades, with over 130 albums and an estimated 100 million records sold worldwide.
Gott’s repertoire ranged from romantic ballads to jazz, swing, and operetta.
Signature songs include “Trezor”, “Lady Carneval”, and “Kam tenkrát šel můj bratr Jan”, a poignant tribute to Jan Palach.
He won the Český slavík award 42 times and performed across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

Lucie Bílá (born 1966)

Lucie Bílá, born Hana Zaňáková, is a powerhouse vocalist and actress known for her emotional intensity and theatrical flair.
She has released over 16 studio albums, including “Missariel”, “Hana”, and “Ta o mně”, and collaborated with Karel Gott on the hit album “Duety”.
Her iconic song “Láska je láska” became a national anthem of love and empowerment.
Bílá is the most awarded female artist in the history of the Český slavík poll, known for her versatility across pop, rock, and musical theater.

Helena Vondráčková (born 1947)

With a career spanning over 60 years, Helena Vondráčková is a legend of Czech pop and musical theater.
She rose to fame with hits like “Červená řeka”, “Pátá”, and “Sladké mámení”, and was part of the iconic trio Golden Kids with Marta Kubišová and Václav Neckář.
Her theatrical roles include Fantine in Les Misérables and Donna in Mamma Mia!
Vondráčková’s enduring popularity is reflected in her Platinum albums and sold-out tours well into the 2000s.