Introduction
Welcome to the website of the Májovák Wind Orchestra from Karviná, the oldest and greatest miner’s orchestra in the Czech Republic. The orchestra, which during its more than one hundred years long history changed its form many times, but which still espouses to the tradition of small miner’s bands, from which it arose.
Let us show you not only our history and achievements of the past, but also introduce those who continue in this work, and invite you to viewing some of our photos and listening to our recordings.
We believe that you will like our presentation and that we will meet at some concert of ours.
History
1908 – 1943
A small miner’s band, having arisen at the Gabriela mine, plays at miner’s feasts and celebrations. It becomes popular in the region and the number of members slowly increases. An essential milestone comes in 1943 when Viktor Bystroň accepts the baton.
1943 – 1963
Viktor Bystroň gives the orchestra an order basis and extends its repertoire. The band gives concerts outside the region, takes part in competitions and records for radio. In 1963, Milan Bystroň, Victor’s son, is ready to take over the baton.
1963 – 1982
Milan Bystroň introduces new instruments such as bassoons and saxophones and leads the orchestra to new artistic expansion. Májovák (using this name since 1972) gives concerts in foreign countries (Poland, France), wins prizes at many festivals, records for radio and television and makes its first LP.
1982 – 1992
The orchestra is conducted by Karel Bria and meets incredible artistic growth, culminating in 1989, when Májovák wins the 1st prize at the World Music Contest in Kerkrade, Netherlands. It records for radio and television, visits more countries (Germany, Russia, Hungary, Norway) and gives concerts all over the republic.
1992 – 1998
The change of economic and social situation in 1989 has devastating impact on the orchestra. In 1993, Milan Bystroň returns as a concuctor, the structure of the orchestra changes and since 1996 it has been a non-profit organisation. The crisis is overcome, Májovák records its first CD, goes for tours of foreign countries (Italy, Germany, Austria, Poland) and has bold artistic plans.
1998 – 2005
Milan Bystroň’s son Jiří is the deputy conductor. He impersonates the third generation of the Bystroň family to conduct the Májovák orchestra.
2005 – 2008
Jiří Bystroň is too busy to conduct the orchestra, so he passes his baton to Vlastimil Blažek. Májovák visits Sicily in 2006 and a year later it takes part in the international contest of wind orchestras in Ostrava, where it is awarded the golden band. In 2007, Marek Prášil becomes another conductor of the band. The orchestra celebrates 100 years of its existence in 2008 and goes for a tour of Italy.
2009