WBS: Slováček & Iwasaki

Get ready for an evening that will take you on a journey through the diverse world of Czech music, from the Romantic era to the present day, offering a blend of charming melodies, breathtaking virtuosity, and rhythmic energy. The program opens with Zdeněk Fibich’s *Night at Karlštejn*, Overture, Op. 26, a composition that captures the mysterious atmosphere of a medieval castle and transports listeners into a world of legends and romantic tales. This is followed by Václav Trojan’s enchanting Song of the Nightingale, a lyrical miniature full of delicate tones and melodic charm that showcases the beauty of the Czech musical tradition in a small-scale format. The highlight of the first part of the program is Ondřej Kukal’s Clarinettino, a modern composition for clarinet that showcases the instrument’s wide range of timbres and technical possibilities. The evening’s soloist, Felix Slováček Jr., captivates with his virtuoso performance and musical sensitivity, which blends tradition with a distinctive expression. The evening concludes with Antonín Dvořák’s famous Slavonic Dances, a selection from Opuses 46 and 72. These dance compositions are full of rhythmic energy, joy, and folk inspiration. From light mazurkas to lively polkas and dumkas—each dance brings a liveliness and colorfulness that will captivate every listener. The music will be brought to life by the West Bohemian Symphony Orchestra under the baton of conductor Chuhei Iwasaki, whose attention to detail and dynamics will highlight the character of each composition. This concert offers not only a musical experience but also a journey through various periods of Czech music and an opportunity to discover its beauty, color, and energy.