Beschrijving

Miroslav Juchelka was born on March 29, 1922 in Velká Polom (Silesia). He attended the Prague Conservatory, finishing organ and composition studies in 1943 and graduating four years later from the Conservatory’s Master School studying piano. He became a leading figure at Czech Radio in Ostrava and later on in Prague, working as music director and reviewer. Juchelka also performed with and composed for smaller ensembles. He gradually expanded his compositional scope, distinctly inspired by Silesian folk songs. From the mid-1970s his style was influenced by so called neo-classicists of the 20th century, drawing on the legacies of Bohuslav Martinù and Dimitri Shostakovich. Juchelka’s oeuvre included chamber, orchestral and vocal compositions as well as pieces for solo instrument and orchestra. Miroslav Juchelka died on 10th July, 2001 in Prague.

One of Silesian composer Miroslav Juchelka’s most renowned compositions is the “Optimisten-Marsch” (March of the Optimists). Its virtuous woodwinds, bright trumpets and powerful basses convey the happiness and confidence of an optimistic life philosophy. A beautiful and equally joyful contrast to the dynamic main theme is the trio’s extended melodic lines. Due to its marked jauntiness this concert march stands apart from traditional and military marches and is a shining pearl amongst works of this genre. This rehearsal-friendly revised edition by Jaroslav Zeman makes this enriching march accessible to all ambitious bands.