'I am all for innovation, for progress of every kind, but I should like to see it gush out spontaneously from creative necessity.'

Born in Prague 120 years ago, Foerster played a major role in the development of modern Czech music. During the course of his 91 years he knew Dvorak, Fibich, Tchaikovsky and Mahler, and his compositions offer a fascinating contrast to those of his contemporary, Janacek. The programme, which includes examples of his choral and orchestral works, was written by Dr Bedrich Belohlavek, a leading Prague music critic before the war and friend of the composer.

(gramophone records)