Tribute to Saint John of Nepomuk

A melodrama by the Pilsen Philharmonic dedicated to the most significant Czech saint. The Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Prague, Jan of Nepomuk, died a martyr’s death as a victim of the tyranny of King Wenceslas IV. He thus became the most famous Czech medieval political prisoner. His legacy endured even through the Hussite period and became fully venerated especially after the Battle of White Mountain.

“People remain the same. Whoever was decent has always been decent; whoever was faithful remains faithful even now. Whoever changes faith has none.” (Karel Čapek)

A person’s character is revealed most clearly in times of crisis. That is why I deeply admire people who do not abandon their principles and ideals even in the most difficult trials — even at the cost of their own lives. Saint John of Nepomuk is such a model for me. He was able to stand up to the abuse of power and remain true to his principles and the truth despite suffering and death. His fate and personal convictions, together with librettist Martin Pášma, inspired me to create a melodrama based on the story of his life.
Tomáš ILLE (composer)

Svatopluk Schuller, Marek Mikulášek: actors
Chuhei Iwasaki: conductor
Pilsen Philharmonic Orchestra