Meet the Orchestra

The Czech Philharmonic is the foremost Czech orchestra, with a tradition going back nearly 130 years. It gave its debut concert on on January 4, 1896, under the baton of Antonín Dvořák. Discover the orchestra’s history and get to know the conductors, musicians, and young talents who shape its sound today.

129

years of the orchestra’s existence

124

orchestra members

80+

concerts per season

100 000+

listeners annually

Facing the Orchestra

Meet the conductors behind the sound of the Czech Philharmonic.

Semyon Bychkov

Chief Conductor and Music Director

Jakub Hrůša

Principal Guest Conductor

Simon Rattle

Principal Guest Conductor Rafael Kubelík Chair

“The orchestra brings me immense joy and fulfilment, because I’m part of a family – the Czech Philharmonic.”

Semyon Bychkov

Semyon Bychkov

Chief Conductor and Music Director

One orchestra, more than 120 personal stories

Discover each musician’s journey—from their first attempts at playing an instrument to their performances on the stage of Dvořák Hall.

A Window into History

1896
Dvořák conducts the first concert

1959
First world tour

2013
First time under the direction of Semyon Bychkov

Orchestral Academy: an Opportunity for Young Talents

Since the 2012/2013 season, the Czech Philharmonic has been actively supporting promising musicians by involving them in rehearsals, recording projects, concerts, and tours. See how the new generation of Philharmonic players continues the legacy of today’s members.

Auditions

Being part of the Czech Philharmonic means helping shape the direction of the music scene and contributing to cultural life both at home and abroad. Find out what it takes to earn a seat in the country’s leading orchestra.

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