Meet the Orchestra

The Czech Philharmonic is the Czech Republic’s leading orchestra. With a tradition going back nearly 130 years, it gave its first concert on 4 January 1896 conducted by Antonín Dvořák. Here you can explore the orchestra’s history and get to know the conductors, musicians and young talent who are shaping its sound today.

129

years of performing

124

orchestra members

80+

concerts per season

100 000+

listeners annually

Behind the Music

Meet the conductors shaping the sound of the Czech Philharmonic today

Semyon Bychkov

Chief Conductor and Music Director

Jakub Hrůša

Principal Guest Conductor

Simon Rattle

Principal Guest Conductor Rafael Kubelík Chair

“The orchestra brings me immense joy and fulfilment, because I’m part of a family – the Czech Philharmonic.”

Semyon Bychkov

Semyon Bychkov

Chief Conductor and Music Director

One orchestra, more than 120 personal stories

Discover the musical journeys of each member of the Czech Philharmonic – from their first attempts at playing an instrument, to their performances on stage of the Dvořák Hall.

A Window into History

1896
Dvořak conducts the Czech Philharmonic’s first ever concert

1959
First world tour

2013
First performance conducted by Semyon Bychkov

Orchestra Academy: Opportunities for Young Talent

Since the 2012/2013 season, the Czech Philharmonic has actively supported young musicians by involving them in rehearsals, recording projects, concerts and tours. Learn more about how the new generation of players will continue the legacy of today’s Czech Philharmonic members.

Auditions

Being part of the Czech Philharmonic means shaping and contributing to the music and culture scene both at home in the Czech Republic and abroad. Find out what it takes to earn a seat with the country’s leading orchestra.

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