Performing Smetana’s My Country in its entirety is a daunting challenge even for seasoned professional orchestras. But what about an orchestra of conservatoire students? “It’s audacity, of course, yet artists only grow through challenges. And these young artists must receive a lot of them.” Jiří Bělohlávek’s words perhaps most appositely encapsulate the essence of the ambitious project by means of which the Prague Conservatoire celebrated the bicentenary of its foundation: opening the 2011 Prague Spring festival with My Country.

Bělohlávek first encountered the 130-member student orchestra in Polička at a five-day gathering, at which he shaped their joint performance. The Prague Spring concert proved to be a great triumph.

This DVD bears witness to what was also highlighted by the critics: the young players’ surprisingly high interpretational level and, above all, exceptional enthusiasm and energy. When listening to the recording, one can – with a certain new hope – recall that in previous centuries Prague could proudly boast of being the “conservatoire of Europe”.

Live recording from the Prague Spring International Music festival 2011 plus Documentary – The Most Youthful Prague Spring Opening.

Recorded live at the opening concert of the 66th Prague Spring International Music Festival at the Smetana Hall of the Municipal House, Prague, May 12, 2011.

Picture: PAL 16:9
Language: Czech / Subtitles English