Seoul Philharmonic Opens Prague Spring Festival
The Prague Spring International Music Festival will open on May 12, 2027, at the Smetana Hall of the Municipal House with a performance of Bedřich Smetana’s cycle My homeland by the Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of artistic director Jaap van Zweden. It marks the first time in the festival’s history that a non-European orchestra will deliver the opening performance.
Historical Milestone for Asian and European Musical Dialogue
Festival director Robert Hanč noted that the Seoul Philharmonic stands among the leading symphonic ensembles on the Asian continent and represents world-class quality, having performed at venues such as the BBC Proms and Carnegie Hall. Conductor Jaap van Zweden described the engagement as both an exciting moment and a deep responsibility, emphasizing the importance of approaching Smetana’s work with profound respect for Czech history and national significance.
The 82nd edition of the festival runs from May 12 to June 2, 2027, featuring more than 70 events, including 37 concerts across 85 participating artists and ensembles from 23 countries. Ticket sales begin on November 4 at 11:00 AM on the official festival website.
Complete Beethoven Cycle With Bamberg Symphony
The Bamberg Symphonics will serve as the festival’s residential orchestra under the leadership of Jakub Hrůša, who has led the ensemble since 2016. Between May 17 and May 25, 2027, the orchestra will perform all nine symphonies of Ludwig van Beethoven to mark the bicentennial of the composer’s death. Pianist Igor Levit will appear as the festival’s residential artist.
The program includes prominent international soloists and conductors. Violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter returns to the festival after 17 years to perform the Czech premiere of Arch of Light, a triple concerto by Iranian composer Golfam Khayam, on May 26, 2027. Countertenor Jakub Józef Orliński will make his festival debut on May 31, 2027, singing the title role in Alessandro Stradella’s oratorio Saint John the Baptist alongside the ensemble Il Pomo d’Oro and conductor Francesco Corti.
Festival Expands Outdoor Venues and Partners with Academy
Alongside traditional concerts at the Municipal House and Rudolfinum, the festival is expanding its public footprint. The opening-day Open Air concert returns to Riegrovy sady on May 12, 2027, while a new three-day weekend program titled Spring by the water will take place on Střelecký ostród, featuring concerts and workshops. To strengthen its educational initiatives, the festival signed a cooperation memorandum with the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague (HAMU).
The International Music Competition of Prague Spring will precede the main festival from May 6 to May 14, 2027, focusing on the harpsichord and clarinet. The harpsichord competition will commemorate the centenary of the birth of Zuzana Růžičková.
Frequently Asked Questions About Prague Spring 2027
When do tickets go on sale for the 2027 festival?
Ticket sales open on November 4 at 11:00 AM through the official Prague Spring festival website.
Who will curate the new jazz program series?
Pianist Fred Hersch serves as the curator for the newly established Jazz Prague Spring program series for the 2027 edition.
What historical anniversary does the 2027 festival commemorate in classical music?
The festival highlights the music of Ludwig van Beethoven, marking 200 years since the composer’s death with a complete cycle of all nine symphonies performed by the Bamberg Symphonics.
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