This day is marked not only by musical events, but also by a rare astronomical phenomenon. At 4:41 AM, the summer solstice—solstitium—occurs, the moment when the Sun reaches its northernmost point in the sky, bringing us the longest day of the year. The beginning of summer, abundance, and prosperity has been celebrated for centuries across the world—called Litha by the Celts, Kupadla by the Slavs (named after cleansing baths), and later as St. John’s Eve in Christian tradition, which follows the solstice. These are traditionally seen as magical days, charged with heightened perception, celebration, and powerful energy.
Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy, much like Mozart in his time, was considered a child prodigy. What many don’t know is that he was also a skilled illustrator. For this special day, we’ve selected his Double Concerto in D minor for violin, piano, and orchestra—a piece that reflects his extraordinary artistic range.
The next work is not only contemporaneous with Mendelssohn, but also emotionally and historically connected. Austrian composer Franz Schubert, a student of Antonio Salieri, died at the young age of 31—just eight months after his only public concert consisting entirely of his own works. Despite his brief life, he left behind an immense body of music. During his lifetime, his acclaim was mostly limited to admirers in Vienna, but in the decades following his death, interest in his music soared. It was Mendelssohn, along with Schumann, Liszt, and Brahms, who helped revive and champion Schubert’s legacy.
His Death and the Maiden reflects deeply on the value of life and the meaning of death. In some interpretations, Death is portrayed not as something fearsome, but rather merciful—offering peace and release. In this context, death is not only destructive, but also redemptive. As the piece suggests: “Be of good cheer. I am not cruel. Let yourself peacefully rest in my embrace.”
PROGRAMME:
• Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy - Concerto for violin, piano and strings d minor
Josef Špaček — violin
Miroslav Sekera — piano
The Chamber Academy Central Bohemia
• Franz Schubert - Death and the Maiden
The Chamber Academy Central Bohemia
Joel Link & Alex Link & Jiří Kabát & Tomáš Jamník — artistic directors
The concert is with a break. Estimated end of the concert at 18:45.
