Czech opera rising star Zdeňka Kotková captivates audiences in Lusaka and Harare
29.07.2024 / 16:09 | Aktualizováno: 31.07.2024 / 16:44
The captivating performances of rising Czech opera star Zdeňka Kotková have left an indelible mark on audiences in Lusaka and Harare, where she performed as part of the celebrations for the Year of Czech Music 2024. Her concerts, featuring a rich repertoire of classical masterpieces, drew large and appreciative crowds, showcasing her extraordinary talent and the timeless beauty of Czech musical heritage.
On 20 July in Lusaka, the Zambian-Italian Cultural Centre was the venue for a truly memorable evening. More than 200 culture enthusiasts gathered to experience Kotková's stunning vocal performance, accompanied by her talented pianist Guncha Hojanepseova. The program included masterpieces from an impressive array of composers: Rossini, Puccini, Verdi, Chopin, Janáček, Obradors, Dvořák, Bellini, Kálmán, and Strauss. The audience was treated to a magical blend of powerful arias and intricate piano pieces, which resonated deeply with everyone present.
Following the resounding success in Lusaka, Kotková and the accompanying pianist Hojanepesova continued their tour to Harare, where they performed at St. John's College. The concert, attended by over 90 ardent music lovers, was co-organized by the Czech Embassy in Lusaka and Mrs. Ivana Summerfield, the Czech Honorary Consul in Harare. The event featured the same enchanting selection of classical works, bringing the beauty and emotional depth of Czech music to Zimbabwean soil for the third consecutive year.
Zdeňka Kotková's performances in both Zambia and Zimbabwe were more than just concerts; they were a celebration of cultural exchange and a testament to the enduring legacy of Czech music. The Year of Czech Music 2024, commemorating the birth of Bedřich Smetana, provided a perfect backdrop for these events, highlighting the profound impact of Czech composers on the world stage.
Kotková's remarkable talent continues to amaze and inspire audiences across Africa, and her dedication to bringing Czech musical artistry to the world is truly commendable. As the Year of Czech Music 2024 progresses, her performances stand as a shining example of the power of music to transcend borders and unite people in appreciation of beauty and culture.