Czech Philharmonic | Photo Credit: Petra Hajska
The Czech Philharmonic – which made its debut in 1896 under Antonín Dvorák – has an extraordinary legacy reflecting its place in the pantheon of the great European orchestras as well as its distinct location embracing both Eastern and Western Europe culture and tradition. Internationally acknowledged for its definitive performances of Czech composers Dvorák, Janácek, Martinu, and Smetana, the Czech Philharmonic is also recognized for its relationship to the music of Brahms, Tchaikovsky and Mahler, who was of Czech origin, and whose Symphony No. 7 they premiered in 1908. Now led by Chief Conductor Semyon Bychkov, the all-Czech orchestra makes its home in Prague at the Rudolfinum and proudly represents their homeland throughout the world as an esteemed and cherished cultural ambassador.