For over a century, the Czech Philharmonic has represented the pinnacle of Czech cultural achievement. In 1896, Dvořák conducted the orchestra’s debut performance at the Rudolfinum in Prague, still home to the orchestra’s Prague concerts. In 2012, Jiří Bělohlávek returns as the orchestra’s Chief Conductor.
The Czech Philharmonic performs in venues including New York’s Carnegie Hall, Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, Musikverein in Vienna, Philharmonie in Berlin, London’s Royal Festival Hall and Suntory Hall in Tokyo. Festival appearances include the Bbc Proms, Berliner Festspiele, Lucerne Festival and SalzburgerFestspiele.
Of the orchestra’s recording of Suk’s Asrael Symphony, The Sunday Times noted, in 2011, “... the advantage of an orchestra that has lived and breathed this music for 100 years”. The Financial Times added: “The Czech Philharmonic’s live performance breathes a conviction and beneath-the-skin rapture that you won’t find in any other recording.”
To be thus described in 2011 demonstrates an orchestra returning to the high standards of its golden age, in exceptional performances which are attracting international recognition. Under the baton of the inimitable Jiří Bělohlávek from 2012, the Czech Philharmonic looks forward to entering a new era, combining tradition with innovation as an orchestra at the height of its powers.