Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Opera

 

The Prague Philharmonic Choir is a renowned classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with its exceptional performances for over 80 years. Founded in 1935, the choir has become one of the most respected and sought-after choral groups in the world. The choir was established by Jan Kühn, a prominent Czech conductor and composer, who wanted to create a professional choir that would perform the works of Czech and international composers. Kühn was a visionary who believed that music had the power to unite people and transcend cultural and linguistic barriers. He assembled a group of talented singers who shared his passion for music and his commitment to excellence. Over the years, the Prague Philharmonic Choir has had many distinguished members, including some of the most celebrated singers in the Czech Republic. The choir has also collaborated with some of the world's most renowned conductors and orchestras, including Sir Simon Rattle, Zubin Mehta, and the Berlin Philharmonic. One of the highlights of the choir's early years was its performance of Dvořák's Stabat Mater in 1936, which was conducted by the composer's son, Otakar Dvořák. The concert was a huge success and established the choir's reputation as a leading interpreter of Czech music. During World War II, the choir faced many challenges, including the loss of several members who were killed or imprisoned by the Nazis. Despite these difficulties, the choir continued to perform and even gave a concert in the Terezín concentration camp in 1943, which was attended by the International Red Cross. After the war, the choir resumed its activities and began to tour internationally, performing in countries such as Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. In 1952, the choir was renamed the Prague Philharmonic Choir and became the official choir of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra. In the 1960s and 1970s, the choir continued to expand its repertoire and perform works by contemporary composers such as Krzysztof Penderecki and György Ligeti. The choir also collaborated with the legendary conductor Rafael Kubelík, who was a great champion of Czech music. In the 1980s, the choir began to work with the conductor Jiří Bělohlávek, who would later become its artistic director. Bělohlávek was a visionary conductor who brought a new level of artistry and professionalism to the choir. Under his leadership, the choir recorded many acclaimed albums and performed at some of the world's most prestigious venues, including Carnegie Hall and the Royal Albert Hall. One of the choir's most memorable performances was its rendition of Verdi's Requiem at the 1990 Salzburg Festival, which was conducted by Bělohlávek. The concert was a triumph and established the choir's reputation as one of the finest choral ensembles in the world. In the years that followed, the choir continued to perform and record extensively, collaborating with many of the world's leading conductors and orchestras. The choir's repertoire includes works by Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Brahms, and many other great composers. In 2012, the choir celebrated its 75th anniversary with a series of concerts and events, including a performance of Dvořák's Stabat Mater at the Rudolfinum in Prague. The concert was a fitting tribute to the choir's rich history and its enduring legacy. Today, the Prague Philharmonic Choir continues to inspire audiences with its exceptional performances and its commitment to excellence.

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