Ondřej Havelka and His Melody Makers: Preserving the Golden Age of Jazz

For nearly three decades, Ondřej Havelka and his Melody Makers have captivated audiences with their authentic and vibrant recreations of American jazz standards and Central European swing music from the 1920s and 1930s. Founded in Prague in 1995, the ensemble stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of this era and a commitment to historically informed performance.

Origins and Artistic Philosophy

Ondřej Havelka formed the Melody Makers after leaving the Original Prague Syncopated Orchestra in 1995 [1]. Havelka, the son of actress Libuše Havelková and composer Svatopluk Havelka, partnered initially with Karel Majer to create a 14-member big band. The group’s approach is rooted in a deep respect for the original music and a dedication to recreating the sound and atmosphere of the period.

Authenticity Through Instrumentation and Arrangement

A cornerstone of the Melody Makers’ success lies in their commitment to authenticity. This extends beyond musical proficiency to encompass the instruments used and the arrangements employed. The ensemble prioritizes using period instruments whenever possible, recognizing that their unique character significantly contributes to the overall sound [2]. They meticulously study and replicate period arrangement techniques, ensuring that their performances are faithful to the original intent of the composers and arrangers.

A Legacy of Preservation and Performance

The Melody Makers’ dedication to historical accuracy has not only enriched the Czech music scene but has as well influenced the production of replica period instruments within the country. Their work has involved discovering, copying, and arranging previously unknown compositions from archives, expanding the repertoire of available music from this era.

Current Activities and Performances

Ondřej Havelka and his Melody Makers continue to tour the Czech Republic, performing at prestigious venues such as Lucerna Hall in Prague, a landmark designed by the grandfather of Václav Havel and completed in 1921 [3]. The ensemble, sometimes performing as a reduced 7-member version known as Melody Makers 7 with Vojtěch Havelka [4], maintains a rigorous rehearsal schedule and develops innovative concert programs.

Key Takeaways

• Ondřej Havelka and his Melody Makers are a Czech big band specializing in 1920s and 1930s jazz and swing.
• The ensemble prioritizes authenticity through the use of period instruments and arrangements.
• Founded in 1995, the group continues to perform and preserve the legacy of early jazz music.