Spring Break
Prazak Quartet To Perform
Stephen Ortiz
Issue date: 2/28/07 Section: Focus
The New York Times has described them as "hot blooded, richly textured with a particularly beautiful sound."
The Dallas Morning News called their performance "outstanding, extraordinary; a vivid and moving experience." Tonight, UConn will be able to experience the Prazak Quartet first hand.
Considered a national treasure in the Czech Republic, the Prazak is well-known for its impeccable performances, numerous awards at top competitions and talent as a group.
The quartet was established in 1972 when its members were still students at the highly praised Prague Conservatory, since then they have firmly established themselves as one of chamber music's pre-eminent ensembles.
The Prazak Quartet's equally revered recordings encompass their extensive talent, from Haydn to Schoenberg, with particular emphasis on the great Czech composers. It is comprised of members Vaclav Remes and Vlastimil Holek, violin; Josef Kluson, viola; and Michal Kanka, cello.
The quartet is now in its 30th year, but the musicians still maintain a youthful exuberance.
"Music should always please you.," said cellist Kanka. "When I go to a concert, I want to be happy. I want the audience to have the same feeling. And for that, you need a warm sound with a specific flavor."
The program for tonight will include: "Quartet No. 2 in D minor" by Smetana; "Five Pieces for String" Quartet by Schulhoff; and "Quartet in F Major, Op. 96" by Dvorak.
The Prazak has performed at music capitals all over the world from Paris to Amsterdam, London to Munich, New York to Los Angeles. They've played venues such as Carnegie Hall, the Lincoln Center and the 92nd Street Y.
The performance is presented by Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts at the von der Mehden Recital Hall tonight at 7:30. Patrons may learn more about the program during the Concert Talk by Dr. Bruce Bellingham preceding the event at 6:45 p.m.
The Dallas Morning News called their performance "outstanding, extraordinary; a vivid and moving experience." Tonight, UConn will be able to experience the Prazak Quartet first hand.
Considered a national treasure in the Czech Republic, the Prazak is well-known for its impeccable performances, numerous awards at top competitions and talent as a group.
The quartet was established in 1972 when its members were still students at the highly praised Prague Conservatory, since then they have firmly established themselves as one of chamber music's pre-eminent ensembles.
The Prazak Quartet's equally revered recordings encompass their extensive talent, from Haydn to Schoenberg, with particular emphasis on the great Czech composers. It is comprised of members Vaclav Remes and Vlastimil Holek, violin; Josef Kluson, viola; and Michal Kanka, cello.
The quartet is now in its 30th year, but the musicians still maintain a youthful exuberance.
"Music should always please you.," said cellist Kanka. "When I go to a concert, I want to be happy. I want the audience to have the same feeling. And for that, you need a warm sound with a specific flavor."
The program for tonight will include: "Quartet No. 2 in D minor" by Smetana; "Five Pieces for String" Quartet by Schulhoff; and "Quartet in F Major, Op. 96" by Dvorak.
The Prazak has performed at music capitals all over the world from Paris to Amsterdam, London to Munich, New York to Los Angeles. They've played venues such as Carnegie Hall, the Lincoln Center and the 92nd Street Y.
The performance is presented by Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts at the von der Mehden Recital Hall tonight at 7:30. Patrons may learn more about the program during the Concert Talk by Dr. Bruce Bellingham preceding the event at 6:45 p.m.
Be the first to comment on this story