Marek Štilec, the conductor on this album, is known for his interpretation of Classical orchestral repertoire and specializes in Czech Romantic and contemporary music, having made over 30 recordings for various labels.
Historical Context
Vítězslav Novák's reputation diminished in the inter-war period due to a cultural schism initiated by Zdeněk Nejedlý, who advocated for Smetana as the true embodiment of Czech music over Dvořák and his followers.
Composer Biography
Vítězslav Novák studied law at Prague University on a scholarship while also pursuing musical studies at the Conservatory, including compositional courses with Antonín Dvořák.
Performer Biography
The Janáček Philharmonic Ostrava, the orchestra on this recording, was officially established in 1954 and has performed with world-renowned conductors and soloists like Hindemith, Prokofiev, Stravinsky, and Sir Charles Mackerras.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Vítězslav Novák found his individual voice after visiting the Moravian district of Valachia in 1896, where its folk music became an abiding influence on his work.
Recording & Production
The Two Wallachian Dances on this album are a world premiere recording, having been recently discovered in the Czech Museum of Music by Jiří Štilec, the producer of this album.
Composer Biography
Vítězslav Novák, a Czech composer, was born in 1870 and became responsible for his family's upkeep at the age of twelve after his father's death.
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