Pianist Marek Kozák has been honored with the prestigious Jiří Bělohlávek Prize, becoming the seventh recipient of this esteemed award reserved for artists under thirty. The award was presented to him at the Czech Philharmonic’s Open Air concert held at Hradčanské Square in Prague, marking the conclusion of the orchestra’s 129th season. The concert, conducted by Dalia Stasevska, served as a fitting backdrop for this recognition.
In a video message expressing his gratitude for the accolade, Marek Kozák conveyed his joy and appreciation for being selected as this year’s awardee. Despite being physically distant from the award ceremony due to a prior performance commitment in Leipzig, Kozák’s heartfelt sentiments were shared through his fiancée, Denisa Beňovská, who accepted the prize on his behalf. Kozák noted the significance of his mentorship under renowned conductor Jakub Hrůša, a former student of Jiří Bělohlávek, adding a poignant layer to his recognition.
Renowned for his exceptional talent and musical prowess, Marek Kozák stands out as one of the most promising pianists of his generation. His performances are characterized by technical precision, a sophisticated interpretation of musical structure, and a profound reverence for the composers whose works he brings to life. Kozák’s musical journey has been marked by success in various international competitions, including the Géza Anda Competition, the Busoni Competition, and the Prague Spring competition.
Besides his solo endeavors, Kozák actively engages in chamber music collaborations, partnering with esteemed Czech musicians such as Simona Šaturová, Václav Petr, and Vilém Vlček. His passion for exploring lesser-known repertoire culminated in the release of the well-received album “Forgotten Czech Piano Concertos,” featuring compositions by Karel Kovařovic, Vítězslava Kaprálová, and Pavel Bořkovec. A graduate of the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague, where he studied under Ivan Klánský, Kozák also imparts his musical knowledge as a dedicated teacher.
The Jiří Bělohlávek Prize not only recognizes Kozák’s outstanding achievements but also grants him the opportunity to perform at the Czech Philharmonic’s upcoming Open Air concert. Alongside this performance invitation, the award includes a financial endowment of CZK 50,000 from the Jiří Bělohlávek Fund under the Czech Phil Foundation. The presentation of the prize, which held special significance due to the involvement of Anna Fejérová, the wife of the late chief conductor of the Czech Philharmonic, was accompanied by the bestowal of a diploma designed by painter Jiří Voves.
This recognition of Marek Kozák’s talent and dedication serves as a testament to the vibrancy and excellence of the classical music landscape, highlighting the importance of nurturing young talents and celebrating artistic achievements within the music community.
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