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Municipal House, Prague, Smetana Hall -
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Festive Christmas Concert at Municipal House
Prague, Municipal House (Obecní dum) — Smetana Hall
About the Event
Indulge in an enchanting and eagerly awaited Christmas concert, where the resplendent strains of classical masterpieces will transport you into a realm of musical delight. Prepare to be captivated by the harmonious compositions of esteemed maestros such as Antonio Vivaldi and Arcangelo Corelli, whose timeless works have stood the test of centuries.
In the elegant embrace of Prague's revered and globally acclaimed Municipal House (Obecní dum), the grandeur of the Smetana Hall sets the stage for an evening of unparalleled auditory splendor. Bathed in the warm glow of festive lights, this architectural gem provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable musical journey.
The program, meticulously curated to evoke the spirit of the season, will feature a diverse selection of compositions. Experience the melodic beauty of Adolphe Adam's creations, resonate with the heartfelt notes of Franz Xavier Gruber, and delve into the rich heritage of Adam Václav Michna z Otradovic's musical tapestry.
As the melodies weave through the air, the evocative strains of John Francis Wade's and James Lord Pierpont's melodies will evoke cherished memories and kindle the warmth of Christmas past. Moreover, a piece by an unknown yet gifted composer will add an air of mystery and discovery to the evening's repertoire.
Amidst the opulent surroundings of the Smetana Hall, allow the music to embrace you, uplift your spirit, and kindle the festive fervor within. This Christmas concert promises an immersion into the harmonious wonders of centuries‐old compositions, all within the embrace of Prague's cultural treasure, the Municipal House. Join us for an evening that will undoubtedly be etched in your heart as a musical masterpiece.
Practical Information
At the concert, the Dvořák Symphony Orchestra Prague will perform in a chamber ensemble with harpsichord, solo vocals and solo violin.
Program
- Arcangelo Corelli – Christmas Pastorale
- John Francis Wade – Adestes Fideles
- Adolphe Adam – Oh, Holy Night
- James Lord Pierpont – Jingle Bells
- Franz Xavier Gruber – Silent Night, Christ the Lord is born
- unknown composer – Czech Christmas Carol Born Christ the Lord
- Adam Václav Michna z Otradovic – I want him to sleep (Czech Traditional Carol)
- Antonio Vivaldi – Four Seasons
Artists
| Orchestra, Ensemble: | Dvorak Symphony Orchestra The Dvořák Symphony Orchestra was formed in the 60s of the last century on the initiative of the top musicians. Currently the orchestra members are leading players of renowned orchestras in Prague such as the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra, FOK, SOČR, PKO, PKF, The National Theatre and others. |
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Municipal House (Obecní dum)
The Municipal House is a popular Prague attraction and one of the most beautiful buildings in the Old Town, situated at Republic Square not far from the Powder Gate. In the Middle Ages the site housed the palace of the King of Bohemia,and was later used as a college, archbishop´s residence, and a military academy. The structure was eventually torn down, and in 1912 the new Municipal House was erected in the Art Nouveau style. Since opening, the Municipal House has been a glamorous location for festive balls, concerts, exhibitions and important meetings, including the declaration of Czechoslovak Independence in 1918. Today the Municipal House is used primarily as a venue for classical concerts in Prague. Its main hall is named after famous Czech composer Bedrich Smetana, and serves as one of the principal stages for the Prague Spring International Music Festival. The hall can accommodate up to 1200 people and has unique acoustics. The architectural highlight of the Smetana Hall is a glass dome decorated with steel grids and stained glass, which is illuminated when darkness falls. A place of pilgrimage for many of the worlds greatest organists, the real jewel of the Municipal House is the great organ, its almost 5000 pipes crowned with Smetana´s portrait.
Antonio Vivaldi
Antonio Vivaldi went down in history as a creator of the instrumental concert genre and the father of orchestral music. He was born in Venice on the 4th of March 1678. Vivaldi was a weak and sickly child suffering from asthma, however could not stop him from devoting himself completely to music. His father, Giovanni Batista a professional violinist, taught his elder son Antonio to play the violin. With his father young Antonio met the best musicians of Venice of that time and gave concerts in local churches. He also worked as a violin teacher and later as a music director at the orphanage Ospedalle della Pieta. Meanwhile he composed concertos, sacred works and vocal music and in 1713 he achieved great recognition with his sacred choral music. Vivaldi got captivated by the world of opera and worked both as opera composer and impresario at the Teatro San Angelo. In 1717 he obtained a prestigious position by the prince court in Manua as a director of secular music and worked there until around 1720. During that time he composed his world-renowned masterpiece The Four Seasons. In the 1730's his career dwindled as his music became unfashionable and the great composer died in poverty. It took the world two centuries to rediscover and reevaluate Vivaldi’s music, as it was buried into oblivion after his death. In the early 20th century many previously unknown works were found and immediately captured the hearts of the music lovers.
Address
Municipal House (Obecní dum), 5 Republic Square (Namesti republiky 5), Prague, Czech Republic — Google Maps
