Karel Husa

Karel Husa was a Czech-American composer and conductor whose powerful works left a lasting mark on 20th-century classical music. Born in Prague in 1921, he trained at the Prague Conservatory and later studied in Paris with legends like Nadia Boulanger. After fleeing Czechoslovakia’s communist regime in 1954, he settled in the U.S., teaching at Cornell University and crafting music that blended modernist styles with his Central European roots. His *Music for Prague 1968*, written in response to the Soviet invasion of his homeland, became an iconic protest piece, performed worldwide by orchestras and wind ensembles.

Husa’s music often grappled with human struggles and political themes, earning him a Pulitzer Prize in 1969 for his *String Quartet No. 3* and widespread acclaim for works like *Apotheosis of This Earth*, an eco-conscious orchestral plea. A champion of wind bands, he wrote challenging yet expressive pieces that remain staples in the repertoire. Albums like *Husa: Trumpet Concertos* and collaborations with groups like the Illinois State University Wind Symphony showcase his bold, emotional voice. He passed away in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of artistry that bridged continents and generations.

Genres

Experimental

Classical

Contemporary Classical

Avant-garde

Chamber Music

Neo-classical

Wind Ensemble

Czech Classical

Latest Release

Husa, Martinů: Music for Clarinet

Karel Husa

Album - 18 Tracks - Released June 9, 2023