Christmas Concert

The first composition of this evening is a rare piece, a symphonic poem *The Taborite* by Alois Hnilička – Smetana’s contemporary, teacher, choirmaster and organist from Ústí nad Orlicí and Chrudim. It premiered in 1862 in Ústí nad Orlicí under the auspices of the local ensemble Cecilská hudební jednota. The piece tells the story of a young man, enthusiastic about the heroism of the Hussite warriors, who rushes, despite his mother’s pleas, to fight *“for the chalice and his nation”.* The legacy of Zdeněk Lukáš, one of the most frequently performed Czech composers of the second half of the last century, is voluminous, striking, accessible and very popular. *Tres canti studiosorum (Three student songs)* set medieval Latin poetry to music. Thirdly, Jan Kučera, who is not only a capable conductor, but also a great pianist, arranger and composer, also turns to the past on this occasion. His 2015 vocal composition *Benedicamus Domino (Let Us Bless the Lord)* is an intimate and ecstatic symphonic interpretation of Christmas carols. With well-known as well as lesser-known old songs, the performance guides listeners through the Christmas season, from the birth of Jesus to the New Year’s message wishing goodwill among people and peace in their lives.

**Programme:**
- Alois Hnilička: *The Taborite*
- Zdeněk Lukáš: *Tres canti studiosorum*
- Jan Kučera: *Benedicamus Domino*