Are you a classical music lover?
Are you a classical music lover pining for some affordable quality culture in the city of Prague? Then look no further because the 2013 Dvořák Prague Festival kicks off in the second week of September.
This important social event is not only an annual celebration of the world's renowned Czech composer Antonín Dvořák, but also a parade of outstanding performances by the top, internationally acclaimed conductors, orchestras, chamber ensembles, and last but not least, soloists.
Every year the festival brings artists from all over the globe; the most distinguished artists who have appeared at the festival include for instance Joseph Calleja, a Maltese tenor, who has performed in many opera houses such as the Royal Opera House in London, the Vienna State Opera, or the Metropolitan Opera in New York. The festival also hosts famous orchestras such as Orchestre National de France, Philharmonia Orchestra London, Tokyo String Quartet and many more.
Most performances will be held in the Rudolfinum, which boasts one of the best acoustics in Europe. Named after the successor to the Habsburg throne, Archduke Rudolph, this gorgeous Neo-Renaissance building was constructed in the years 1876-1881 as a multi-purpose art venue with concert and exhibition halls. This monumental building located at Jan Palach Square on the right bank of the Vltava River was a joint project of two prominent Czech architects, Josef Zítek and Josef Schultz, who also cooperated on the construction of the National Theater in Prague.
The grand opening of the Rudolfinum was held on 7th February and the very first concert of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra took place at the main concert hall in 1896 conducted by Antonín Dvořák, after whom the concert hall later received its name.
Are you a student on a budget? Do not worry because Dvořák Prague will once again offer special discounts to young music lovers. If you are a ISIC/YTIC card holder under 26 years of age, feel free to join the Youth Club. Besides discounts for festival concerts the membership offers discounts to special 'Meet the Artists' Q&A sessions with young starts of the festival's Debut series, which is a great way to meet the artists in a less formal atmosphere.
For more information about registration check out Youth Club on the festival's website. Do not miss this unique opportunity to be part of one of the most prestigious social events of the year! Tickets to the Dvořák Prague Festival may be purchased online or via sales network throughout the Czech Republic. For program and more information see www.dvorakovapraha.cz.
