Composer

:

Iva Bittová

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

5:39

'Sto let' is a contemporary classical composition by Czech composer and musician Iva Bittová. The title translates to 'One Hundred Years' in English, and the piece was composed in 2017 to commemorate the centenary of the founding of Czechoslovakia. The composition premiered on October 28, 2018, at the Rudolfinum in Prague, Czech Republic, as part of the official celebrations of the Czechoslovakian centenary. The piece was performed by the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Tomáš Netopil, with Bittová herself performing as a soloist on violin and vocals. 'Sto let' is divided into three movements, each representing a different era in Czechoslovakian history. The first movement, titled '1918,' is a tribute to the founding of Czechoslovakia and features a melancholic and nostalgic melody played on the violin. The second movement, '1968,' is a reference to the Prague Spring and the subsequent Soviet invasion. This movement is characterized by a dissonant and chaotic sound, with Bittová's vocals adding an eerie and haunting quality to the piece. The final movement, '2018,' is a celebration of the present and future of Czechoslovakia, with a more upbeat and optimistic melody played on the violin. Bittová's unique style is evident throughout the composition, with her use of extended techniques on the violin and her distinctive vocal style. She blends elements of classical music with folk and avant-garde influences, creating a sound that is both traditional and experimental. The piece also features a prominent role for the cimbalom, a traditional Czech instrument, adding to the overall folk-inspired sound. Overall, 'Sto let' is a powerful and emotional tribute to the history and culture of Czechoslovakia, showcasing Bittová's talents as both a composer and performer.

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