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Receiving
three standing ovations following his performance at the Prague
Spring Festival this year, it is evident that pianist Antonin Kubalek’s
artistry and musicianship continues to command respect and appreciation
from audiences and critics internationally. With playing that has
become synonymous with "perfection of style, precision and
beauty of sound and interpretation", he remains one of the
most prominent pianists in North America.
Mr. Kubalek’s
performances have graced the stages in solo, chamber and orchestral
concerts. With over two dozen CD titles and two dozen LPS titles
to his credit, he remains an international recording artist winning
praises in such publications as American Record Guide, Fanfare Magazine,
CD Review, & Gramophone Magazine. Mr. Kubalek has twice been
nominated with the highest recording honour in Canada: the Juno
Award. Glenn Gould made a unique contribution to this Canadian artist's
career. Gould's only foray into the role of "producer"
was spirited by Kubalek's playing. The Second Piano Sonata by Korngold,
recently re-released on CD by Citadel Records, was the fruit of
this singular musical union.
With a special affinity
for the music of Czech composers, his breadth of repertoire also
spans the classical to the most challenging contemporary composers.
Canadian contemporary music is impressively and thoroughly represented
by Mr. Kubalek's numerous premieres and recordings, many of which
are commissioned by him. Equally at home with chamber repertoire,
his chamber recordings include the Dvorak's Piano Quintets with
the Lafayette String Quartet and earlier recordings with the likes
of the Vaghy Quartet.
Antonin
Kubalek, a respected educator, has served on the faculties of The
Royal Conservatory of Music, University of Toronto, York University,
the Prague Conservatory and the Prague Academy. As a preeminent
teacher, Mr. Kubalek is often invited to colleges and universities
throughout North America where he gives masterclasses, seminars,
and coaching sessions. His expertise is also in demand on both national
and international juries.
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