The orchestra has received great acclaim for its recent Dvořák recordings for Decca. Future releases will include key works of the Czech repertoire such as Smetana’s Má vlast, Janáček’s Galagolitic Mass and Suk’s Asrael with Jiří Bělohlávek, and the complete symphonies of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky with Semyon Bychkov. The Czech Philharmonic has an illustrious heritage. Antonín Dvořák conducted the orchestra in its inaugural performance on 4 January 1896 at the Rudolfinum and Gustav Mahler conducted the Czech Philharmonic for the world premiere of his Symphony No. 7 in Prague in 1908. The orchestra’s international reputation grew under great conductors Václav Talich, Rafael Kubelík, and Karel Ančerl. The Czech Philharmonic has received numerous international awards and nominations and has recently made documentaries and films about the music of Dvořák in conjunction with Czech Television. The Czech Philharmonic continues to expand its activities, sharing its passion and artistry with people of all ages and backgrounds through new education initiatives including an orchestral academy. Today, a rejuvenated Czech Philharmonic is heard at the most prestigious concert halls and festivals. International appearances in the 2015/16 season included Royal Festival Hall in London for a concert performance of Jenůfa with Karita Mattila, Konzerthaus in Vienna, and a tour of Asia incorporating a residency in Tokyo including performances at NHK Hall. The orchestra is privileged to work with the world’s finest musicians including soloists Joshua Bell, Hélène Grimaud and Anne-Sophie Mutter, and guest conductors including Herbert Blomstedt, Semyon Bychkov and Valery Gergiev.
