Abstract
A series about Czech contemporary composers who deal with vocal music for solo voice and organ. The composer, radio dramaturgist and publicist Jiří Teml (*1935) is one of the important personalities of Czech musical life.
His extensive and compositionally diverse work spans many musical styles and genres. He likes to work with the singing voice, where he usually avoids too much experimentation, uses traditional techniques and respects the possibilities of performers.
He wrote a number of sacred vocal compositions, from liturgical compositions to philosophical-religious ones. His work is specific for its distinctive motivic work, understanding of the singing voice, respect for declamation and, above all, its extraordinary ability to capture the depth of the message of thought.
Perhaps that is why his music has so many admirers among performers and listeners. It is often commissioned by leading artists, musical ensembles and prestigious festivals and is highly regarded by professional critics.
The article is supplemented by an interview with Jiří Teml.