At the end of the year, we have again prepared an extraordinary cultural experience for you – this year with a world premiere arrangement. Thanks to our long-standing partnership with the Bennewitz Quartet, we are once again hosting a private Christmas concert by this top-notch ensemble that performs on prestigious stages around the world. This time the concert takes place in the premises of the Academy of Musical Arts in the Lichtenstein Palace in the Lesser Town, Malostranské náměstí 258/13, Prague 1, in the historic Gallery Hall, and after the concert we continue with a meeting for the evening’s visitors with the musicians in the Club next door. Small refreshments with a glass of wine for everyone will be provided.

Programme 19:30-21:30, Gallery

(entry from 7pm, dressing room open)

Bennewitz Quartet and Markéta Cukrová, in a world premiere arrangement by Tomáš Ille

The first part of the evening will feature the Bennewitz Quartet, accompanied by Ms. Markéta Cukrová, a distinguished Czech mezzo-soprano who has performed on the world’s leading stages. The impetus for the joint performance is the world premiere of two compositions funded by the Venture Club.

These are two song cycles by Antonín Dvořák, written for female voice with piano accompaniment, the part of which has now been transcribed for string quartet by contemporary composer Tomáš Ille. This performance will be a world premiere. We also expect Mr. Ille to be present.

Specifically, the following cycles will be performed (length in minutes in brackets):

1. Dvořák – Four Songs to words by Gustav Pfleger Moravsky Op.2 (10′)
2. Moderato – You Boiling Songs
3. Andante con moto – Oh, it was a beautiful, golden dream
4. Andante – My Heart
5. Allegretto – Silence on the Mountain

Arranger – Tomas Ille – world premiere

1. Dvořák – In the National Tone Op. 73 (11′)
2. Lento – Dobrú noc
3. Allegretto grazioso – Mourn the girl, mourn the grass
4. Andante – Oh, he’s not here, he’s not
5. Allegretto – Hey, I’ve got a horse of a faku

Arranger – Tomas Ille – world premiere

Bennewitz Quartet and Antonín Dvořák

After an interval in the second part of the evening, the Bennewitz Quartet continues its performance. One of Antonín Dvořák’s string quartets will be performed, as well as works by Erwin Schulhoff and Bohuslav Martinů.

Programme 21:30 – 23:30, Club

After the concert, we will have a glass of fine wine and small refreshments, a chat with the artists and a select group of investors and friends to enjoy a pleasant pre-Christmas mood with in the Club, next to the Gallery.

Dress code: business casual

Invite your halves, friends and guests, we have a lot to look forward to. Entry is also possible for non-members. Order your entry below, payment in advance by bank transfer. Proceeds from admission will be donated as an honorarium to the artists. Other costs of the event are sponsored by the club.

Thank you, we look forward to seeing you and wish you an enjoyable experience.

Petr Šedivý and Radim Horák