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Prague Spring International Music Festival

15th January 2007

The Prague Spring International Music Festival is one of the most famous musical occasions in the world and attracts a huge number of spectators and performers every year.

Originally organised by Czechoslovak president Edvard Benes in 1946, the festival has included performances by a number of famous names from the classical world. Leonard Bernstein, Charles Munch and Sir Adrian Boult are among those who have appeared.

The festival's long history has one principal tradition. Opening each year on May 12th, the event begins with a performance of My Country by Bedrich Smetana, the famous Czech composer. The Czech Philharmonic Orchestra has performed at every festival and will open the event in 2007.

Numerous operas also feature in the annual programme. The 62nd festival will host performances of Mozart's La Clemenza di Tito, Puccini's La Fanciulla del West and a special 400th anniversary performance of Orfeo by Monteverdi.

Young artists are also catered for at the Spring Festival, with the Prague Spring International Music Competition offering worldwide fame to the eventual winners. Each year the competition has a different focus, with previous contests focusing on areas such as conducting and horn-playing.

Three weeks of music and opera end each year on June 3rd with the Prague Symphony Orchestra playing a number of celebrated pieces, including work by Beethoven and Dvorak. With a reputation as one of the finest musical events in the world, the festival should not be missed by those enjoying a break in Prague.

© Adfero Ltd

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