Pianist Receives Standing Ovation
September 16, 2024, 11:41 AM
Matyáš Novák truly outdid himself with his captivating performance at the National Gallery of Art's West Garden Court on Sunday afternoon. The audience erupted in applause and gave the pianist a well-deserved standing ovation, a testament to his extraordinary talent.
His interpretation of Smetana's "Vltava," originally composed for orchestra and masterfully transcribed for piano by Matyáš himself, was nothing short of majestic. Each note radiated with his technical skill and artistry. This concert paid tribute to the Year of Czech Music and the Mutual Inspirations Festival 2024, celebrating the 200th birthday of Czech composer Bedřich Smetana. Bravo, Matyáš!
Ambassador Highlights Diplomacy and Cimbalom
September 14, 2024, 2:32 PM
Music Professor Benjamin Harbert at Georgetown University hosted a remarkable program featuring Czech cimbalom performer Matěj Číp as part of their Friday Music Series.
Matěj’s performance was a true highlight, showcasing pieces such as "Four Greetings from the Beskydy Mountains" by Dadák and Leoš Janáček's "Blown Away Leaf." He also shared fascinating insights about his background and his journey as the first in the US to study the cimbalom.
Festival Launches!
September 13, 2024, 2:00 PM
The Mutual Inspirations Festival kicked off last evening with a performance by Matěj Číp, known as the "Cimbalom Guy." He showed his amazing skill on the cimbalom, playing such pieces as Leoš Janáček's Blown Away Leaf, Claude Debussy's Doctor Gradus ad Parnassum, and Jan Meisl's Praeamblum e Toccata for Cimbalom.
Through his performance, he revealed the many colors and versatility of the cimbalom - the beautiful tones, dynamic range, sustained and staccato notes, and harmonies. He performed classic, contemporary and folk songs, and ended his night with the challenging piece normally performed on violin - Paganini's Caprice No. 5 in A Minor. He concluded the evening inviting the audience to the stage to take a closer look at the cimbalom and answer any questions.
Festival Banner Personality Announced
July 29, 2024, 3:58 PM
The Embassy of the Czech Republic celebrates the life and enduring legacy of composer Bedřich Smetana, hailed as the "Father of Czech Music." Renowned for his groundbreaking operas and remarkable classical compositions, Smetana played a pivotal role in shaping Czech cultural identity. His influence continues to resonate, and the Czech Republic remains celebrated for his contributions to classical music and the many exceptional musicians who have followed in his footsteps.
In honor of his 200th birth anniversary, the festival will showcase a stellar lineup of artists, including cimbalom virtuoso Matěj Číp, acclaimed opera singer Ester Pavlů, and talented pianist Matyáš Novak. The festival will take place at prestigious venues such as the National Gallery of Art, Georgetown University, and the Kennedy Center Millennium Stage. Beginning on September 12 and running through November, this celebration promises to be a magnificent tribute to Smetana's remarkable legacy.
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