 |
Vladimir ValekCzech conductor.
Date of Birth: 02.09.1935
Country:  Czech |
Content:
- Václav Neumann: Czech Conductor
- Orchestral Leadership
- Dvořák Chamber Orchestra
- Prague Symphony Orchestra and Beyond
- Recordings and Legacy
Václav Neumann: Czech Conductor
Early Life and EducationVáclav Neumann was born in Prague, Czechoslovakia, on September 29, 1920. He began his musical studies at the Kroměříž Conservatory, where he learned violin and horn. In the late 1950s, he pursued conducting studies at the Bratislava Academy of Music and the Prague Academy of Performing Arts.
Orchestral Leadership
After completing his studies, Neumann embarked on a successful orchestral career. From 1966 to 1974, he led the Czechoslovak Armed Forces Orchestra. During this period, he also conducted the North Bohemian Philharmonic Orchestra in Teplice from 1969 to 1971.
Neumann gained recognition in 1968 when he replaced the ailing Nathan Rachlin as the conductor of the Prague Symphony Orchestra. He performed a complex program of works by Beethoven, Richard Strauss, and Prokofiev.
Dvořák Chamber Orchestra
In 1970, Neumann founded the Dvořák Chamber Orchestra, assembled from soloists of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra. He served as its music director for a decade.
Prague Symphony Orchestra and Beyond
From 1975 to 1986, Neumann was the chief conductor of the Prague Symphony Orchestra. In 1986, he took over as the music director of the Czech Radio Symphony Orchestra. From 2004 to 2007, he led the Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra.
Recordings and Legacy
Václav Neumann's extensive discography includes the complete symphonies and piano concertos of Erwin Schulhoff, as well as works by Antonín Dvořák, Bohuslav Martinů, and Igor Stravinsky. He is recognized for his sensitive interpretations and exceptional technical abilities.
