What was Jaroslav Svěcený's Christmas gala concert like in České Budějovice?

On Thursday, December 18, 2025, violin virtuoso Jaroslav Svěcený appeared for the third time at St. Nicholas Cathedral in České Budějovice.
Accompanied by the chamber orchestra Virtuosi Pragenses, the concert unfolded in a deeply atmospheric spirit shaped by works of great composers such as Antonio Vivaldi, Johann Sebastian Bach, Antonín Dvořák, Georg Friedrich Händel, and others. The entire program was accompanied by Christmas-themed and original poetry recited by Zdeňka Žádníková.

Part of the evening also featured the outstanding Czech baritone Filip Bandžak, who left a strong and lasting impression with performances of pieces such as Ave Maria, Panis Angelicus, Silent Night, and others. The concert concluded with a selection of classic Christmas carols, performed by Mr. Bandžak together with Mr. Svěcený and the Virtuosi Pragenses orchestra.

The natural alternation between vocal performances and orchestral passages gradually built something that stays with the listener. A sense of deep emotion combined with openness—this is how the beauty of the music can be expressed. In the sacred space of the cathedral, the gala concert became one of the first opportunities, just a few days before Christmas, to immerse oneself in the true essence and calm of the holiday season.