The first composition of this evening is a rare piece, a symphonic poem The Taborite by Alois Hnilička – Smetana’s contemporary, teacher, choirmaster and organist from Ústí nad Orlicí and Chrudim. Tres canti studiosorum (Three student songs) set medieval Latin poetry to music. Thirdly, Jan Kučera, who is not only a capable conductor, but also a great pianist, arranger and composer, also turns to the past on this occasion. His 2015 vocal composition Benedicamus Domino (Let us Bless the Lord) is an intimate and ecstatic symphonic interpretation of Christmas carols. With well-known as well as lesser-known old songs, the performance guides listeners through the Christmas season, from the birth of Jesus to the New Year’s message wishing goodwill among people and peace in their lives. programme Alois Hnilička — The Taborite Zdeněk Lukáš — Tres canti studiosorum Jan Kučera — Benedicamus Domino performers Jan Kučera conductor Czech Radio Children’s Choir Věra Hrdinková choirmistress More