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Photo: Věra Kohoutová
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Prague Mixed Choir in Toronto

On the occasion of the commemoration of the centennial anniversary of the founding of Czechoslovakia and the 50th anniversary of the Prague Spring, a celebratory concert by the Prague Mixed Choir was held on Friday, May 25 2018 at the Rosedale United Church in Toronto.
 

The ceremony was opened by Consul General of the Czech Republic, Ivan Počuch, who reminded the audience of the significance of both historical events and the values Czechoslovakia and the Czech Republic were founded upon and their firm place in the history of European democracies. His speech was followed by remarks of a representative of the Ontario government, Jonathan Sauvé, who recalled the role of the local Czech and Slovak community in Ontario and those of the president of Sokol Canada, Robert Tmej. Michael Martinček, Honorary Consul of Slovakia, gave a speech as well.

Generální konzul Ivan Počuch při slavnostním zahájení koncertu

The nearly fifty-member choir led by Jiří Petrdlík, one of the most recognized European conductors of his generation, gave an outstanding performance in front of the capacity audience in the hall of the Rosedale United Church. The Prague Mixed Choir is one of the best Czech choirs among amateur ensembles.

The festive atmosphere was felt right from the opening of the evening when the choir performed the Canadian and Czech anthems accompanied by organ played by Jan Steyer. The show continued with Saint Wenceslas Choral, Ye Who Are Warriors of God Choral followed by a selection of works by Smetana, Janáček, Dvořák and others. The expertly executed program was rewarded at the conclusion by a long, standing ovation.

Slavnostní koncert

In the words of Consul General Ivan Počuch:  “I´m delighted that we succeeded in introducing Toronto to a Czech musical ensemble of the quality that we heard during the concert. I consider this to be one of the most significant cultural events and outstanding promotions of our country that has taken place this year in Canada. This is apparent by the overwhelming response of the audience after the concert and during the reception that followed.”

In cooperation between the Consulate General and other institutions, the Prague Mixed Choir performed also during the regular mass at the Rosedale United Church. The highlight was their joint performance with a local church choir singing songs by Antonín Dvořak in the Czech language. At the conclusion of their four-day stay, the choir performed at the opening of a classical music festival in the city of Hamilton.

Dirigent Jiří Petrdlík a Pražský smíšený sbor