The concert — the third evening of the festival — featured outstanding performances by organist Ondřej Valenta, soprano Markéta Fassati, and the acclaimed chamber orchestra Barocco Sempre Giovane. The evening's carefully curated program presented Baroque masterpieces by Johann Sebastian Bach and Georg Friedrich Händel, including:
Bach: Concerto in A minor (BWV 593) after Vivaldi
Händel: German Aria and Organ Concerto in F major (HWV 295)
Bach: Selections from Cantata BWV 51, “Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen”
Händel: Ciacona in C major (HWV 443), in a special transcription by Ondřej Valenta
The setting could not have been more majestic. The soaring Gothic architecture of St. Vitus Cathedral, paired with the powerful sound of the organ and the crystal-clear soprano voice of Markéta Fassati, created an atmosphere of reverent beauty. It was a moving musical experience that resonated deeply with all in attendance.
After the concert, part of the group continued the celebration at a nearby pub, enjoying drinks, warm conversation, and reflections on the evening. Though the night was chilly and rainy, the good company and shared experience made for a heartwarming close to this special anniversary event.
We’re already looking forward to our next cultural outing together.
