Write to me
Klasika Plus
At the turn of June and July, Ostrava will once again transform into a European center for clarinet and saxophone. From June 28 to July 5, 2025, the city will host the 24th edition of the International Interpretation Masterclasses, traditionally held at the new Faculty of Arts building of the University of Ostrava. These masterclasses are primarily designed for young musicians and students, offering them a unique opportunity to refine their skills under the guidance of world-leading performers and educators.
The core of the masterclasses consists of individual lessons, chamber ensemble playing, professional lectures, and public concerts. Participants undergo six individual sessions focused on technical mastery, the interpretation of both traditional and modern repertoire, and the development of a unique musical voice. Additionally, specialized seminars led by experts will cover topics such as the history and evolution of the clarinet, breathing techniques, contemporary performance techniques, jazz elements in classical music, and the fundamentals of historical instruments.
This year’s edition places a special emphasis on preparing clarinetists for orchestral auditions. This section will be led by prominent figures of the global clarinet scene: Andrew Marriner (UK), Gábor Varga (Hungary/USA), and Arkadiusz Adamski (Poland). Those interested in historical instruments, such as the chalumeau or the Classical basset horn, can consult with Igor Františák, while Karel Dohnal will present modern clarinet performance techniques. The saxophone class will be led by Philippe Portejoie (France), Paweł Gusnar (Poland), and newly, Artur Motyka (Poland).
The masterclasses also feature a series of public concerts. The highlight will be the program on Sunday, June 29, in the Faculty of Arts Concert Hall, featuring the Májovák Karviná Symphonic Band under the baton of Filip Urban. Featured soloists include Gábor Varga (clarinet), Paweł Gusnar (saxophone), Marek Švejkar (E-flat clarinet), Ondřej Janča (clarinet), Igor Františák (baset horn), and Karel Dohnal (bass clarinet). The program will include works by Johan de Meij, Gioacchino Rossini, Sergei Prokofiev, Toshio Mashima, and Óscar Navarro, including several Czech premieres.
The courses also offer opportunities to collaborate with professional accompanists and engage with products from leading instrument manufacturers. The combination of high-level instruction, concerts, and informal networking creates an inspiring environment that annually attracts young musicians from across Europe and overseas.
