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© Český národní symfonický orchestr
Czech National Symphony Orchestra
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 September 2026  | ||||||
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The Czech National Symphony Orchestra (CNSO) is one of the leading orchestras in Europe, renowned for its versatility and excellence. Founded in Prague in 1993, the orchestra has performed a wide range of repertoire, from classical masterpieces to contemporary works and film music. Under the baton of distinguished conductors, the CNSO has collaborated with world-class soloists and composers, captivating audiences internationally. Known for its vibrant sound and expressive performances, the orchestra regularly appears at major concert halls, festivals, and recording studios. Its dedication to musical artistry and innovation makes every concert a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether performing symphonic works, opera, or special themed programs, the Czech National Symphony Orchestra represents the rich cultural heritage and modern spirit of Czech music.
Program and cast
Performers
Czech National Symphony Orchestra
Steven Mercurio conductor
Programme
Gustav Mahler:
Symphony No. 7 in E minor
Mahler’s Symphony No. 7 in E minor, often referred to as the Song of the Night (Lied der Nacht), is particularly significant for Czech audience—its world premiere took place in Prague in 1908, with Mahler conducting it himself. The work shifts between night and day, darkness and light, gravity and irony, and continues to inspire a wide range of interpretations. In this symphony, Mahler reaches one of the peaks of his orchestral genius. He blends a layer of dark musical introspection with joyful instrumental outbursts and employs unusual instruments like guitar, mandolin, and cowbells. This exceptional work will be performed at the 1st Subscription Concert under the baton of Chief Conductor Steven Mercurio, traditionally held in the Smetana Hall of the Municipal House.
21 April 2026
Performers
Czech National Symphony Orchestra
Steven Mercurio: conductor
Tomáš Jamník: violoncello
Programme
Antonín Dvořák:
Cello Concerto in B minor, Op. 104
César Franck:
Symphony in D minor
14 October 2026
3rd Subscription Concert
Performers
Czech National Symphony Orchestra
Steven Mercurio conductor
Zuzana Rzounková, Martin Sokol, Jan Vobořil,
Jan Vobořil junior horns
Gypsy Airs op.20
P. Sarasate
Programme
Modest Petrovich Mussorgsky
Night on Bald Mountain
Orchestrated by: Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov
Robert Schumann:
Concert Piece for Four Horns and Orchestra, Op. 86
Richard Strauss:
Ein Heldenleben, Op. 40 (A Hero’s Life)
Symphonic poem for large orchestra
The Third Subscription Concert of the season will open with Night on Bald Mountain by Modest Petrovich Mussorgsky, in the orchestration by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov. This is one of the most famous pieces of 19th-century Russian music, depicting a witches’ sabbath. Next comes Robert Schumann’s Concert Piece for Four Horns and Orchestra—a technically demanding composition that calls for exceptional performers. The solo parts will be performed by musicians Zuzana Rzounková, Martin Sokol, Jan Vobořil, and Jan Vobořil Jr. The evening will conclude with the monumental symphonic poem Ein Heldenleben (A Hero’s Life) by Richard Strauss. Often regarded as the pinnacle of his late Romantic style, this richly orchestrated work features a series of distinct woodwind and brass sections (including eight horns) as well as two harps, creating an exceptionally full and majestic sound.
18 November 2026
Performers
Czech National Symphony Orchestra
The Loop Jazz Orchestra
Steven Mercurio conductor
Lenka Dusilová, Lucia Šoralová,
David Koller, Peter Lipa vocals
Concert held under the patronage of President Petr Pavel.
Programme
Songs and compositions by Czech and Slovak authors
The title of the concert, Still Together, is not only an expression of our relationship to our audiences and the music we love, but a manifesto of the moral and social values we share. These values are symbolized by the timing of the concert which takes place as part of the celebrations of the anniversary of November 1989. It is also marked by the unique composition of the performers and the featured guests of honor. Through its atmosphere and artistic expression, the concert aims to prove that despite the political and social crises of the contemporary world, good people will always unite in song and spirit.
Municipal House Theater Prague
Municipal House (Czech: Obecní dům) is a civic building that houses Smetana Hall, a celebrate concert venue, in Prague, Czech Republic. Its address is Náměstí Republiky 5, next to the Powder Gate in the center of the city.
The Royal Court palace used to be located on the site of the Municipal House. From 1383 until 1485 the King of Bohemia lived on the property. After 1485, it was abandoned. It was demolished in the early 20th century. Construction of the current building started in 1905. It opened in 1912.[citation needed] The building was designed by Osvald Polívka and Antonín Balšánek.
The Municipal House was the location of the Czechoslovak declaration of independence.
The building is of the Art Nouveau architecture style. The building exterior has allegorical art and stucco. There is a mosaic called Homage to Prague by Karel Špillar over the entrance. On either side are allegorical sculpture groups representing The Degradation of the People and The Resurrection of the People by Ladislav Šaloun. Smetana Hall serves as a concert hall and ballroom. It has a glass dome.
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