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Dvořák and England is a new book by David Beveridge, published by the Society that provides a very detailed and expansive exploration of the composer’s relationship with England, covering his nine visits between 1883 and 1896. This book is available in three versions:

  1. Paperback, no annotation
  2. PDF file, no annotation
  3. PDF file with extensive annotation

The two PDF versions are available free of charge to DS members on the Member’s Section Occasional Publications webpage. In addition, Society members who expressed interest have received the paperback copy. All versions of this book are available for sale on the Eshop’s Occasional Publications webpage.

Dvořák and England Jacket Image

The Emmy Destinn Young Singers Awards of 2026

Here are some important dates:

  • 20 October 2026: Application deadline;
  • 10 and 11 November 2026: Preliminary round;
  • 29 November 2026: Final, before a public audience.

For more information, please click here.

Newsletter #154 has been published, and those members who get a printed copy should receive it around 1 May 2026. All other members of the Society can find it in the Members’ Section.

On Tuesday, 23 April 2026, at 8:00 pm at the cinema of the Czech Embassy in London, there was a special evening dedicated to the newly published book on Janáček’s Sinfonietta with the participation of the authors, Nigel Simeone and Jiří Zahrádka, with Jakub Hrůša as a special guest. See our webpage for more information about this book and how to purchase it. You will read a review of this meeting and of the book in the next Newsletter.

Welcome to our website for members and non-members alike.
 

Antonín Dvořák, 1841-1904, composer
Antonín Dvořák,
1841-1904, composer
Bedřich Smetana, 1824-1884 composer
Bedřich Smetana,
1824-1884, composer

The Dvořák Society for Czech and Slovak Music promotes the education of the public in the art music of all Czech and Slovak composers and performers, past and present. It is a UK registered charity, founded in 1974, with international membership. The Dvořák Society aims to foster understanding of the great musical heritage of the Czech Republic and Slovakia by encouraging performances, giving direct financial and other support to suitable projects, and through its publications and study events.

To most music enthusiasts, “Czech” music means the distinguished line of Smetana – Dvořák – Janáček – Martinů but there always was, and still is — so much more to explore. Also, it is not only Czech music but Slovak music and musicians such as Ján Levoslav Bella, Ján Cikker, Alexander Moyzes and Eugen Suchoň that we aim to promote. 

There is a section about the history of the foundation of the Society and a gallery of photographs from previous Society trips to the Czech and Slovak Republics.

All our publications have now been digitalised and are accessible to members. For non-members there is a list of publications with summaries of contents and are available to purchase via the e-shop.

Please take a look at the various pages and links. There is much to explore particularly some of the upcoming music events – Leamington Music Festival (May) the major Czech music festivals such as Prague Spring (May),  Prague Dvořák Festival (September),  and the Janáček  Brno Festival (November), plus other specific events in Prague, Litomyšl and elsewhere.

M David Roberts  
Chairman of the Dvořák Society.  

Bohuslav Martinů. composer
Bohuslav Martinů, 1890-1959, composer
Jiří Bělohlávek, conductor, president 2019-2017
Jiří Bělohlávek, 1946-2017, conductor, President 2020-2017
Leoš Janáček, Composer
Leoš Janáček, 1854-1928, composer
Petr Eben. composer, organist, pianist
Petr Eben, 1929-2007, composer, organist, pianist
Vítězslava Kaprálová, composer, conductor
Vítězslava Kaprálová, 1915–1940, composer, conductor
Bedřich Smetana, composer
Bedřich Smetana, 1824-1884, composer
Sir Charles Mackerras, conductor, President 1979-2010
Sir Charles Mackerras, conductor, 1925-2010, President 1979-2010
Emmy Destinn, soprano
Emmy Destinn, 1878-1930, soprano
Josef Suk, composer
Josef Suk, 1874-1935, composer
Pavel Haas, composer
Pavel Haas, 1899-1944, composer
Ján Cikker, composer
Ján Cikker, 1911-1989, composer
Vítěslav Novák, composer
Vítěslav Novák, 1870-1949, composer

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Vacancy for Honorary Treasurer

After five years, our current treasurer, Martin Israel, will be stepping down at the next AGM in 2026. We are seeking someone to fill this important and fulfilling role. As a member of the National Committee, you will play a part in moving a progressive and internationally important renowned Society in its 52nd year and beyond. Please contact the Chairman, David Roberts, by email with expressions of interest or for further details of the role and responsibilities (chairman@dvorak-society.org). Martin Israel is available for a non-committal conversation (treasurer@dvorak-society.org).    

Job Specification

  • Maintain up to date and accurate financial records, including detailed cash book.
  • Liaise with all matters relating to the bank. Reconcile bank accounts monthly.
  • Make online/telephone banking payments.
  • Administer Paypal account and raise requests for payment.
  • Top up Royal Mail postage card for despatch of Annual Journal and quarterly Newsletters.
  • Between January and March, prepare weekly reports to the subscriptions secretary re subs received directly into the bank account.
  • Prepare annual accounts on an accruals basis and present to the AGM.
  • Liaise with independent examiners.
  • Prepare and present accounts for Committee meetings. Attend the meetings (about 4 per year) which are held on-line (Zoom).
  • Give financial advice on matters affecting the Society.
  • Liaise with other Committee members as appropriate.
  • 12. Prepare annual publication costs schedule for the Czech Embassy.

Last updated TD, 6 February 2026