Bach-Collegium Praha (Bach-Collegium Prague) is an ensemble consisting of a chamber orchestra and choir (about 40 performers). It was created in 1982, and was introduced to the audience a year later. The focus of interest is the ensemble's interpretation of sacred music, especially J.S. Bach's cantatas and works of old Czech masters Františk Xaver and Šimon Brixi especially their hitherto unknown works, resulting editions have newly discovered compositions. Permanent place in the programmes, however, are also secular and sacred works of J. Haydn, W.A. Mozart, Dvořák and others. The regular concert schedule includes Christmas concerts dedicated to the Czech Christmas music.
The founder and conductor of the vocal-instrumental ensemble is Dr. Vladimír Novák, who from the beginning deliberately created a distinctive manifestation of Bach-Collegium Praha, whose members are professional musicians and proficient amateur vocalists. He combines a deep interest in music of the past, whose value is trying to convey to his listeners. Starting from 2007, Vladimír Novák is joined in the management of the ensemble by Jiří Mátl, a long-time member of the group and has also worked as a guest on some projects.
Bach-Collegium Praha concerts are mostly held in Prague concert halls and in Prague churches, but also outside of Prague. |