VERY SAD NEWS | Czech Philharmonic Conductor Jiří Bělohlávek has Died - Aged 71

The Czech Philharmonic has announced the passing of Chief Conductor Jiří Bělohlávek - aged 71

The Czech Philharmonic has today announced the passing of Chief Conductor Jiří Bělohlávek, following an ongoing battle with cancer - aged 71.

"Maestro Bělohlávek died last night following his brave struggle with a serious disease," the ensemble's facebook page has said.

A protege of Sergiu Celibidache, throughout his 5 decade career Maestro Bělohlávek served Principal conducting positions with the Czech Philharmonic, Brno Philharmonic, Prague Symphony, Prague Philharmonia, BBC Symphony Orchestra and the Rotterdam Philharmonic.

“I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Maestro Bělohlávek,” Czech Philharmonic Concertmaster, VC Artist Josef Spacek has told The Violin Channel.

“Thank you for all the years you dedicated to us in the Czech Philharmonic and your unconditional support to me … you have not only been a great leader but also a true friend and I will miss you dearly,” he has said.

Maestro Bělohlávek will be remembered as one of the world’s eminent interpreters of the works of Dvorak, Smetana and Martinu.

Our condolences are with his family, friends, colleagues and students.