Classical Companion

Essential Recordings

Ryba: Czech Christmas Masses
Naxos 8.554428
A Naxos hidden gem. Spacious church resonance and fresh, young solo voices: the authentic spirit of a Czech Christmas.

'Christmas in Prague Cathedral'
Supraphon SU4174-2
Performances of Italianate poise and swing from a leading Czech early-music ensemble and their flautist-director, Jana Semerádová.

'Pastores Surgite' Kuhn Mixed Chorus, etc
Supraphon 81 1184-2
Obscure composers and rarities galore from 18th-century Bohemia and Moravia in this delightful album of Classical-era pastorellas.

Jirašek: Czech and Moravian Carols
Navona NV6010
Christian and folk themes in modern arrangements with stylish instrumental accompaniments. Unpretentious fun.

Vanoce – Christmas in Czech Piano Music
Cobra COBRA0079
Dutch-based Belorussian pianist with a native feel for Czech rhythms. Well-lit engineering and glowing upper piano registers.

'Klenoty Ceskych Vanoc' – Choral Music
Arco Diva UP0060-2
A Czech 'Silent Night', with hymns by Michna z Ostradovic and pastorellas by Linek in romantic but refined modern performances.