A thought-provoking musical evening with pianist and musicologist Katelyn Bouska exploring the 19th century Czech American musical tapestry through selected gems and the New York premiere of her own compositional fantasy.
In 19th-century America, Czech immigrants created a remarkably vibrant cultural environment keeping alive the core of their Czech musical identity. Through both folk tunes and the works of renowned Czech composers, they established a distinct musical presence in their new environment, weaving together the old and the new
As a musical time capsule, this program re-creates that environment through the research and personal stories of pianist Katelyn Bouska, focusing on the Midwestern experience of her Czech ancestors. In Bouska’s own composition, which opens the program, listeners hear a fantasy composed from the music these Czech settlers would have known and brought with them. Folk music and famous melodies from works by Bedřich Smetana and Antonín Dvořák blend with poignant works composed by the Czechs upon their arrival.
Bouska will then guide the audience through the pieces that she chose to include in her fantasy. Historic Czech folk songs, polkas created by the Czech settlers, and music written by Dvořák during his American sojourn all combine for a deep dive into an important strand of American musical identity as it exists today.
Bouska returns to Bohemian National Hall with a rich recital/lecture program; watch her recently presented “Dvořák at 184” celebrating the composer’s birthday on YouTube.
General admission: $30; seniors, students: $20. Tickets may be purchased online through Eventbrite or at the door at the time of the event (cash only).
About
Pianist KATELYN BOUSKA is an academic and an advocate, passionate about uncovering music lost to the passage of time. In her programming, she explores the boundaries between audience and performer, the past and the present. She brings to life these composers drawing from her deep research, cultural explorations and innovative programming. The main interests driving her research are her Czech-American heritage, women in music, and her desire to expand the canon of classical music.
As an active performing artist who attempts to connect to audiences where they are, Bouska has in recent years brought her piano programs to traditional venues such as the Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall or the Rudolfinum in Prague as well as intimate house concerts, art galleries or streaming online musical conversations at her home piano. She has released three solo albums, including “Women and War and Peace,” part of a series celebrating the work of women composers in history.
Bouska is currently based in Prague finishing her book for Karolinum Press, “Czech Women in Music,” and teaching remotely at the Curtis Institute of Music, where she has served on faculty for over eight years.
This event is organized by the Dvorak American Heritage Association with support of the Bohemian Benevolent and Literary Association. A portion of ticket sales will benefit the programs of the Dvořák American Heritage Association, which celebrates its 20th year of public concerts and lectures in 2026.