Prague Spring International Music Festival

The Prague Spring International Music Festival is one of the most prestigious events in the classical music world, bringing together world-class performers, symphony orchestras, and chamber music ensembles from around the globe. Established in 1946 under the patronage of then-president of Czechoslovakia, Edvard Beneš, it has evolved into a celebrated platform for musical excellence.

Throughout its history, the festival has welcomed legendary musicians and orchestras, including the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra, Karel Ančerl, and Leonard Bernstein, among many others. The festival's programs often commemorate significant musical anniversaries, featuring works by renowned composers and premiering pieces by contemporary composers. It consistently attracts top-tier artists to its stage.

The festival's main venue is the Rudolfinum concert hall in Prague, renowned for its exceptional acoustics. Additionally, the festival utilizes Prague's Municipal House for performances, which offers a larger seating capacity.

In addition to the performances, the festival also hosts the Prague Spring International Music Competition, which began a year after the festival's inception. This competition nurtures young performers and is held annually, covering a variety of instrumental disciplines. Notable past winners include Mstislav Rostropovich and James Galway.

The competition encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including piano, organ, violin, cello, trumpet, trombone, French horn, bassoon, oboe, singing, harpsichord, and conducting. It is open to candidates under the age of 30.