Review of the closing concert of the Prague Radio Symphony Orchestra's 82nd season (15. 6. 2009)
DVOŘÁK REQUIEM TOPS THE SEASON One of the highlights of the Prague Radio Symphony Orchestra's subscription season, which was recently brought to a close, was undoubtedly the concert held on 15 June in the Rudolfinum's Dvořák Hall, featuring a performance of the famous Dvořák Requiem. The Radio Orchestra, conducted by Vladimír Válek, was joined by the Prague Philharmonic Choir and four internationally renowned soloists, the majority of whom, on this occasion, hailed from neighbouring Slovakia: soprano Adriana Kohútková, tenor Ľudovít Ludha and bass Peter Mikuláš. The Czech Republic was represented by alto Jana Sýkorová.
[...] Probably everyone who has ever heard this work, sealed by a four-note musical idea which winds its way through the entire piece, repeated almost two hundred times in countless variations, feels compelled to bow down with a sense of sacred reverence. Particularly when the musicians offer such a convincing performance, as was the case at this concert. The four well-prepared, exquisitely voiced soloists suited each other perfectly, blending their wonderful vocal colour; and the orchestra, under the secure direction of the experienced Vladimír Válek, not only provided a sensitive accompaniment, but also used all the possibilities which Dvořák's masterful instrumentation offered it in the various independent sections, including the beautifully performed solos, one of which was delivered by the excellent cor anglais player Jitka Tomšíčková.
Absolute top marks, however, this time go to the outstanding Prague Philharmonic Choir, in particular, superbly prepared by its choirmaster Lukáš Vasilek. His soft yet rich fortes with the radiant sopranos were tremendous, and the fragile pianissimos especially from the male voices, were breathtaking. And, in addition to all this, with Válek at the helm, the music fully reflected the spirit of Dvořák's conception, hence freed of all superficial ostentation, pathos or excessive emotion. Which rendered the performance all the more impressive.
