Programme notes:

Tereza Jaďuďová (b. 2001)
Guitar Concerto No.1, Op. 61
Written in 2023

Dedicated to Adam Svitač

Jaďuďová’s Guitar Concerto No. 1 grew out of renewed exploration of the guitar after many years, sparked by guitarist Adam Svitač, with whom the composer had previously collaborated. The work is built around three guiding principles—oriental character, relaxation, and medieval colour—which form the basis of its three movements. While each movement foregrounds one principle, elements of the others subtly weave through, creating a continuous interplay of atmosphere.

The concerto embraces the guitar’s intimate yet versatile voice within a colourful orchestral frame. Ornamented lines, modal inflections, and open harmonies evoke an oriental flavour; gentle, flowing textures establish moments of calm; and modal counterpoint and rhythmic patterns recall the austerity of medieval music. Throughout, the guitar engages in an ongoing dialogue with the orchestra, moving between moments of prominence and delicate integration.

The work was written in close consultation with Svitač, whose technical and artistic insights shaped the concerto’s idiomatic approach. The piece is dedicated to him, with special thanks to the composer’s former teacher, Jozef Döme, whose support provided the guitar used for the composition.

Instrumentation:

fl, ob, cl, bn, hn, tpt, timp, perc [tgl, cyms, tamb, cast], gtr solo, str [vln I, vln II, vla, vc, db]

Premiere:

19/05/2025, Bratislava (Slovakia), Concert Hall Dvorana VŠMU.

Performers: guitar – Adam Svitač, conductor – Marián Lejava, chamber orchestra Musica dei ricordi

ORFEUS CHAMBER 2025