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Melodies of Quintet

The original quintet was established in 1928 by the oboist and long-time permanent conductor of the Prague Symphony Orchestra Vaclav Smetacek (1906-1986). It was then reorganised in 1968 with new members.

The ensemble's unique quality in performance is reflected time and time again by the enthusiasm shown by critics in concert reviews.

Moreover, their energy and creativity has succeeded over the years in winning the admiration of composers who, to date, have dedicated over a hundred compositions to the ensemble. Although, the quintet gives definitive interpretations of all the classics of literature; contemporary music forms a significant part of its repertoire.

Known as one of the leading wind ensembles of our time, its outstanding homogeneity may be attributed to the artistic perfection of the individual members, their long-term collaboration, musical energy and their identification with the compositions.

This time the instrumentalists are flutist Jan Machat, oboist Jurij Likin, clarinetist Vlastimil Mares, hornist Jan Vobosil and bassoonist Milos Wichterle.

Jan Machat is the flutist and solopiccolist of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra since 1987. He also taught at the Prague Conservatoire from 1997–2000 and was also an artistic director of the festival 'Young podium' in Carlsbad. Currently, he plays as a soloist as well as a chamber musician with a variety of groups.

Jurij Likin (oboe) studied at the Byelorussian Academy of Music with Prof. B.Nitchkov and later at the National Conservatoire in Paris with Prof. M.Bourgue. A winner of several national and international competitions, Jurij moved to Prague in 1994, first taking up the position of Solo/Principal Oboe in the Prague Philharmonia before accepting the same position in the Prague Symphony Orchestra, a post he holds to date.

Vlastimil Mares (clarinet), a graduate of the Academy of Music and Performing Arts in Prague is a recipient of distinguished awards at notable international competitions. Vlastimil has performed as soloist and chamber musician in many countries throughout Europe, in addition to America and Japan. He presently holds the position of Solo/Principal Clarinet of the Prague Symphony Orchestra and is a professor at the Academy of Music in Prague. Vlastimil is also active in the field of conducting.

Jan Voboøil (horn), a graduate of the Brno Conservatory and Academy of Music and Performing Arts in Prague, is a laureate winner of many national competitions with honourable diplomas at prestigious international competitions. Since 1994 Jan has held the position of Solo/Principal Horn of the Prague Philharmonia.

Milos Wichterle (bassoon) was accepted into the Prague Academy of Music and Performing Arts at the early age of fifteen, due to his exceptional talent. Under the close guidance of Prof. K.Pivonka, Milos won several international awards at competitions in Poland, Germany and at the Prague Spring Competition in 1977 and 1981. As a result of his success, he was given the opportunity to perform as a soloist and work in conjunction with various chamber ensembles.

Event: Concert by Prague Wind Quintet

Venue: Cultural Foundation Theatre

Date: February 10

Time: 8:00 PM