Jakub Hrůša has gone from strength to strength in 2017, astounding critics and audiences alike. Hrůša has showcased his prowess and innovation, winning critical acclaim in his Chicago Symphony Orchestra debut back in May. This performance firmly placed him among the ‘ones to watch’ in the upcoming season, with the Chicago Classical Review listing it among their ‘Top Ten Performances of 2017’. Lawrence A. Johnson writes:
“The young Czech conductor led a bracing account of his compatriot’s nationalist epic that brought out all the audacity, brilliance and native flavour in an exhilarating performance that reminded us what a near-masterpiece Má vlast is.”
Additionally, the Chicago Tribune acknowledged Jakub as one of the stand-out ‘highs’ in ‘The highs and Lows in Classical Music in Chicago in 2017’. John von Rhein lists him as one of “most promising CSO downtown podium newcomers”.
In this spirit, Jakub has continued to rise throughout the season, going on to impress critics with his BBC Proms debut. In fact, Hrůša’s “Czechfest” programme landed him on The Arts Desk ‘Best of 2017: Classical concerts’. David Nice writes:
“Another stunning sequence came in Jakub Hrůša’s Czech odyssey around variations on a Hussite chorale, including Martinů’s shatteringly moving Field Mass, on an afternoon and evening of extraordinary Proms riches – only excelled lengthwise by the superb Reformation Day.”
Jakub is set to lead the Royal Opera House Orchestra in Carmen, beginning in February 2018, foregrounding what is already set to be another very exciting year ahead.