Jakub Jan Ryba (1765–1815) was a prominent Czech composer of the classical era, renowned for his pastoral and religious compositions that have become a substantial part of Czech national cultural heritage. Ryba was born in Přeštice, Bohemia, in the then Habsburg Monarchy, and spent most of his life in the rural regions of his native country, where he worked as a teacher and a choirmaster. His music reflects a deep understanding and appreciation of the pastoral life that surrounded him, evident in the character and titles of many of his compositions.

Despite facing numerous personal tragedies and financial difficulties, Ryba left a significant musical legacy that includes more than 1,000 works. Among these, his "Česká mše vánoční" (Czech Christmas Mass), also known as "Hej, Mistře!" (Hey, Master!), stands as his crowning achievement – a staple of Czech Christmas festivities, beloved for its melodic charm and folkloric elements. Ryba's oeuvre spans various genres including masses, motets, and concertos, as shown in more contemporary compilations and performances such as "Jakub Jan Ryba: Violin Concertos, Cello Concerto" and "Ryba: Czech Christmas Mass." Although Ryba's life was marked by adversity, his music continues to bring joy and is celebrated annually, particularly during the festive season, ensuring his legacy endures within the canon of Czech classical music.

Genres

Czech Classical

Related Artists

Johann Sebastian Bach

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Antonio Vivaldi

Antonín Dvořák

Jan Dismas Zelenka

Max Richter

George Frideric Handel

Johann Pachelbel

Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach

Georg Philipp Telemann

Bedřich Smetana

Joseph Haydn

Latest Release

Vánoční hudba

Jakub Jan Ryba

Single - Released November 10, 2023