Consent Preferences

Tomas Svoboda
(Website Additions - Current Activities)

Svoboda photo.
(Tomas Svoboda. Courtesy Portland State University
& Oregon Historical Society).


# = Added or updated this week.
Dec. 6, 2023

# TODAY WOULD HAVE BEEN TOMAS SVOBODA's 84th BIRTHDAY:

(...in honor of this day, we share with you a recording of Tomas Svoboda performing his EULOGY for Piano, Op.146, composed in 1994; Portland, Oregon USA)

Svoboda photo




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(Score)
YouTube logo
(Audio)
 [1] Moderato doloroso view listen
Oct. 21, 2023

TOMAS SVOBODA - MEMORIAL CONCERT:

"...honoring the legacy of Tomas Svoboda: 17 musicians performing 7 of his chamber works - spanning 54 years..."

Svoboda photo.

(Dec. 6, 1939 - Nov. 17, 2022)

Date: Sat. Oct. 21, 2023 [3pm - 4:30pm]
Cost/Admission: Free & open to the public.

Presenter: Portland State Univ. - School of Music & Theater
Title of Concert: "A Tribute to Tomáš Svoboda"
Concert Venue: Lincoln Recital Hall (LH 75)
Address/City: 1620 SW Park Ave.; Portland, OR 97201
Map & Directions: Google Maps.
More information can be found here.


CONCERT PROGRAM: (as of Oct. 15th)

DUO for Xylophone and Marimba, Op.141 (1993) (8 min.)
   Joel Bluestone - xylophone
   Mark Goodenburger - marimba

WEDDING LULLABYE for clarinet and violin (4 min.)
   Michael Anderson - clarinet
   Alice Blankenship - violin

PASSACAGIA, Op.87 (1978) (10 min.)
  (from Passacaglia & Fugue, Op.87)
     Adam LaMotte - violin
     Hamilton Cheifetz - cello
     Julia Lee - piano

SUITE for Piano - 4 Hands, Op.124. (12 min.)
  I: Toccata  II. Nocturne  III. Finale
   Susan Dewitt Smith - piano
   Jeff Payne - piano

SONATINE for Flute, Clarinet, & Piano, Op.154 (1996) (4 min.)
  I. Allegretto
   Syndey Carlson - flute
   Stan Stanford - clarinet
   Chuck Dillard - piano

FOUR MEDITATIONS for Cello and Piano, Op.54 (1969) (8 min.)
   Nancy Ives - cello
   Susan DeWitt Smith - piano

BRASS QUINTET, Op.112 (1983) (8 min.)
  I. Molto  &  II. Molto allegro
   Rose City Brass Quintet:
      Logan Thane Brown - trumpet
      Lars Campbell - trombone
      Joseph Clause - trumpet
      Játtik Clark - tuba
      Dan Partridge - horn
July 24, 2023

MAJOR UPDATE TO "RECORDINGS" WEBPAGE:
(plus each CD's individual webpage (accessed by clicking on CD image.)

1.] Recordings webpage: Added new CDs & Digital Albums released within the past year.

2.] Created or Updated: 12 "All Svoboda" CDs & Digital Albums, listed on the "Recordings" webpage & their individual pages; plus 6 more CDs and added links to many Online Stores throughout the world offering for purchase, both CD and/or Digital MP3 Download Albums & Tracks.

3.] Added YouTube Music links: many CDs are available for "preview" of the entire album or tracks (free with ads), before purchasing tracks or complete digital albums from the CD Labels directly, or from Apple Music, Amazon Music, etc.
Jun. 26, 2023

RECENT CONCERT:
    Presented by: Makrokosmos Project.
"...honoring the legacy of the late Portland composer Tomas Svoboda."


SUITE for Piano 4-Hands, Op.124
Performers:
     Jeffrey Payne, piano
     Susan DeWitt Smith, piano

SONATA No. 3 for Piano, Op.184
     Performer: Susan DeWitt Smith, piano
Date: Thurs. June 29, 2023 [5-10pm]
Presenter: Makrokosmos Project (a festival of contemporary
American music.)
Title of Concert: Makrokosmos Project 9 - Ghosts of Cascadia
Festival Concert Program & List of Performers: found here.
Festival Video Promo: found here.
Concert Venue: Portland Institute for Contemporary Art (PICA)
Address/City: 15 NE Hancock; Portland, OR 97212
Map & Directions: Google Maps.
Concert & Ticket Information at: Makrokosmos Tickets.
Macrokosmos on: "Facebook".
June 25, 2023

NEW "ALL SVOBODA" DIGITAL ALBUM:

PYP CD
[ tap or click on image for additional information ]

FOLK CONCERTINO for 7 Instruments, Op. 82
     Camerata PYP
     David Hattner (cond.)
SIX VARIATIONS for Violin & String Orchestra, Op. 32
     Camerata PYP
     Fumika Mizuno (violin)
     David Hattner (cond.)
SYMPHMONY No. 2 (of Love & War) for Orchestra, Op. 41
     Portland Youth Philharmonic
     Fumika Mizuno, Daniel Tang (violin)
     Samuel Zacharia (viola)
     David Hattner (cond.)
"CHILD'S DREAM" for Children's Choir & Orchestra, Op. 66
      Jacob Avshalomov (cond.)
      Text by Children: 2nd & 3rd grade

* For Track Listings & Additional Credits visit: Navona Records.


CD Title: "Premiere Recordings"
Record Label: Navona Records

Performers: Portland Youth Philharmonic & Camerata PYP.
Music Director: David Hattner
Conductor ("Child's Dream"): Jacob Avshalomov

Preview • Stream • Buy:
     Apple Music/iTunes
     Amazon Music
     Spotify
     Deezer
     Qobuz

Listen to Entire Digital Album/Tracks:
     [free with ads]
     YouTube Music
June 26, 2023

NEW "ALL SVOBODA" DIGITAL ALBUM:

Dewlgani CD image
[ tap or click on image for additional information ]

STRING QUARTET No. 6, Op. 185
STRING QUARTET No. 10, Op. 194
STRING QUARTET No. 12, Op. 202 (Post Scriptum)


CD Title: "Three Quartets"
Performers: Delgani String Quartet
Record Label: Delgani Records

Timing: 56 min.
Date of Release: Nov. 28, 2022

* For Additional Track Listings & Credits visit:
     Delgani Records.

Preview • Stream • Buy:
     Delgani Records
     Amazon Music (digital download)
     Spotify
     Deezer
     Qobuz
     Tidal (subscription)

Listen to Entire Digital Album/Tracks:
     [free with ads]
     YouTube Music
June 26, 2023

RECENT CD RECORDING (By Charles Schlueter):

Schlueter CD image
[ tap or clickon image for additional information ]

DUO CONCERTO for Trumpet & Organ, Op. 152
     Composer: Tomas Svoboda
     CD Title: "Retrospective (A Life in Trumpet)"
     Performers: Charles Schlueter (former principle trpt:
     Boston Symphony)
; Paul Jenkins (organ)
     Record Label: MSR Classics

* For Additional Track Listings & Credits visit:
     MSR Classics.

Preview • Stream • Buy:
     Apple Music/iTunes
     Amazon Music
     Spotify
     Deezer
     Qobuz

Listen to Entire Digital Track:
     [free with ads]
     YouTube Music
Dec. 6, 2022

# Today Would Have Been Tomas Svoboda's 83rd Birthday:

    Those closest to Tomas; his family, colleagues and friends were all hoping he'd make it to his 83rd birthday, so we could once again, celebrate his birthday.

    Throughout his life, Tomas always enjoyed a festive gathering with lots of food, a little Pilsner Urquell maybe(!?), laughter and joy around him.

    Tomas came close...passing away just 19 days ago. Tributes are still coming in from near & far, with radio stations airing Tomas' recorded music in honor of the tremendous, creative musical talent that is no longer with us.

    However, we can look forward to hearing, enjoying and experiencing the spirit of Tomas Svoboda through a number of recordings that are about to be released worldwide.

    When those recordings become available, announcements will be made on this "What's New" webpage.
Nov. 28, 2022

"TRIBUTE to TOMAS SVOBODA" by "All Classical Portland" Radio.

    "All Classical Portland" radio (KQAC 89.9 FM) and Host John Pitman, will pay tribute to the Czech-American composer Tomas Svoboda, who passed away Nov. 17th 2022 in Portland, Oregon.

    The entire 2 hours of his evening program The Concert Hall will present a wide variety of works from Svoboda's vast catalog of music and will include chamber, choral & orchestral compositions.

Date: Sat., Dec. 3, 2022 [7PM - 9PM]
Program: "The Concert Hall"
Host: John Pitman

"All Classical Portland" Radio Network:
    KQAC 89.9 Portland/Vancouver ("All Classical Portland")
    KQOC 88.1 Newport/Lincoln City
    KQHR 88.1 Hood River/The Dalles
    KQHR 96.3 Columbia Gorge East
    KQMI 88.9 Manzanita
    KSLC 90.3 McMinnville
    K23BP 95.7 Corvallis/Flynn
    + Streaming online to 100+ countries around the globe.
Nov. 26 2022

A MAJOR TRIBUTE TO TOMAS SVOBODA
     (Oregon ArtsWatch):


    An extensive, wonderful tribute to Tomas Svoboda has now been posted on Oregon ArtsWatch, the leading arts journal for in-depth coverage of the fine & performing arts throughout the State of Oregon.

    Written by Brett Campbell, a frequent contributor to The Oregonian, San Francisco Classical Voice; he has also been classical music editor at Willamette Week as well as written for The Los Angeles Times Magazine, Salon, Musical America and many other publications. He was also the West Coast performing arts contributing writer for the Wall Street Journal.

    This article is an insightful, informative and historical journey though the long & amazing, productive life, both musically and as a person, of Tomas Svoboda.

    It is filled with quotes by Tomas Svoboda, videos & audio clips, humorous, heartfelt & poignant memories of Tomas which have been submitted by other composers, musicians, colleagues, former students and other classical music writers; with links to other articles about Tomas. It is an engaging and proper acknowledgement of a truly remarkable human being who has now, sadly passed on from us.

    Fortunately, Tomas Svoboda's personality, his humor, his soulful respect for all of nature, his love & wonderment of life itself, will live on, embedded in his music for future generations to enjoy, reflect upon & appreciate.

    45th Parallel Chamber Orchestra will perform Tomas Svoboda’s CHORALE in Eb flat (homage to Aaron Copland) for Piano Quintet, Op.118 at Beaverton’s new Patricia Reser Center for the Arts on Thurs., Dec. 1st 2022 (7:00-8:00 PM).
Nov. 20 2022

** TOMAS SVOBODA HAS DIED **:

b. Dec. 6, 1939 [Paris, France]
d. Nov. 17, 2022 [Portland, Oregon USA]


On Nov. 17, 2022 (4pm), Tomas Svoboda passed away peacefully with family by his side, in Portland, Oregon.

On Dec. 12th 2012, Tomas Svoboda suffered a massive stroke which he was not expected to survive.

He awoke from a week long coma to spend the next 10 years, never losing his positive outlook on life, sense of humor or his determined effort to recover enough to once again compose, though that was not to be.

More information on the life of Tomas Svoboda, plus audio & video recordings can be found under the "Biography" & "Compositions" listings on this webpage, as well as other websites on the internet listed below:

Google  [by searching for "Tomas Svoboda composer"]

Wikipedia

Oregon Encyclopedia
Nov. 19 2022

MAJOR WEBSITE ADDITIONS & REVISIONS:

YouTube (Audio):
Many sample audio excerpts have been replaced with links to YouTube where entire tracks can now be heard.

YouTube (Video):
Links to video performances of Tomas Svoboda's music that have been posted on YouTube, etc. are now being added to this website. This will be an ongoing project.

Recordings (CDs):
The "Recordings" page on this website (when individual CD images are clicked on) now lists a sampling of where "digital copies" of certain CDs may be purchased for download (e.g. Apple Music/iTunes, Amazon Music, etc.), as well as subscription streaming services (e.g. Spotify, Pandora, etc.) where you may find a particular CD containing Tomas Svoboda's music.
June 12, 2022

NEW & ADDTIONAL CD RECORDINGS:

Rose City Brass CD
[ tap or click on image for additional information ]

BRASS QUINTET, Op. 112 by Tomas Svoboda.

CD Title: DisQuiet
Record Label: Rose City Brass Company

Performers: Rose City Brass Quintet
     Logan Thane Brown: Trpt.
     Lars Campbell: Trb.
     Játtik Clark: Tuba
     Joseph Klause: Trpt.
     Daniel Partridge: Horn

Physical CD: Available here:
Digital Download: Available here:

YouTube Live Stream: begins at the 38:35 mark.
YouTube Pre-performance Talk: begins at the 34:25 mark.



Nikol Bóková CD
[ tap or click on image for additional information ]

BAGATELLES (in a Forest), Op.42, #1. "Trails" for Piano
EULOGY for Piano Op. 146 (arranged by Nikol Bóková)

CD Title: Unravel
Record Label: Animal Music [2020 ANI 087-2]

Performer on BAGATELLES (in a Forest):
     Nikol Bóková (piano)
Performers on EULOGY:
     Nikol Bóková (piano)
     Martin Kocián (Double Bass)

Physical CD & Downloads Available at: Apple Music.
Physical CD & Downloads Available at: Animal Music.
May 30, 2021
JANA DEMARTINI's May 2021 exhibit of drawings at Blackfish Gallery; with musical backdrop by Tomas Svoboda; (now posted on YouTube)


Demartini_Drawing
"Play of Light & Shadows"
© 2021 Jana Demartini

Title of Exhibition & YouTube presentation: "ROCKING"
Presented by: Blackfish Gallery (Portland, Oregon)

The musical backdrop of this slideshow is composed & performed by the artist's husband, Tomas Svoboda.

Musical Excerpts: from BAGATELLES "in a Forest" for piano.
Dec. 6, 2020

 TODAY IS TOMAS SVOBODA'S 81st BIRTHDAY

   Unlike last year when there was a Celebration of Tomas Svoboda's 80th Birthday with music concerts and a party inside the Care Home where he resides, this year because of the current Pandemic Lockdown in Oregon, both family and friends can now only visit Tomas outside in the cold, chilly weather.


Svoboda photo.


....however, inside his Care Home, Tomas continues his physical therapy with an uplifting and neverending positive spirit!


Svoboda photo.
Photo credts: © 2020 Jana Demartini
Aug. 9, 2020

# VIDEO STREAM TODAY!! (2:50-3:20 PM Pacific Time)
(Presented by Philadelphia Young Pianists' Academy)
Facebook Livestream Competition at the PYPA Festival.

ETUDE in Fugue Style, Op. 44 #9 by Tomas Svoboda.

Performer: Diego Bustamante
Facebook Link: Live Video
Program for Livestream Competition:
Ravel: Valses Nobles et Sentimentales
Tomas Svoboda: Etude in Fugue Style, Op. 44 #9
Brahms: Sonata in F Minor, Op. 5 (5th movement)
June 17, 2020

# CONCERT VIDEO STREAM TONIGHT!! (6PM PDT)
(Presented by Cascadia Composers, as part of the
New Music Gathering Annual Conference.

FOREST RHYTHMS for Flute, Viola & Xylophone, Op.150 (1995) by Tomas Svoboda.

...with other works by Christina Rusnak, Jay Derderian, Greg Steinke, Theresa Koon and Daniel Brugh.

This event will be streamed via New Music Gathering's Facebook Live page.

For more information visit: Cascadia Composers webpage.

May 13, 2020

# NEAL GITTLEMAN (Music Director: Dayton Philharmonic)

As part of the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance's effort to stay connected to the Regional Arts Community in Ohio and beyond, Neal Gittleman, Music Director of the Dayton Philharmonic has begun a series of "Piano Bench Chats", in which he "shares music and a message during the unprecedented time of COVID-19".

To open his "9th Piano Bench Chat", Maestro Gittleman plays Tomas Svoboda's "Czech Carol" from Vol. I of the 4-volume Children's Treasure Box piano series, which national music educators surveyed by the Piano Quarterly, voted to be among the "40 most important composer collections of the 20th century for teaching piano."

Here is Neal Gittleman's "Piano Bench Chat No. 9" with Tomas Svoboda's "Czech Carol" on YouTube.
May 7, 2020

# NEW MAILING ADDRESS:

ALL USPS, UPS, FEDEX, etc. mailings must now be sent to:

THOMAS C. STANGLAND CO.
Music Publishers
1195 SW 163rd Ave., #105
Beaverton, OR 97006-6815
Mar. 24, 2020

# ADDED YOUTUBE RECORDING:

NOCTURNE for Organ 4-hand, Op.155 (1996)
YouTube Link: AUDIO
Date Posted: Mar. 20, 2020
Performers: The Russian-Italian Organ Duo
Individuals: Elena Kalashnikova and Luca Massaglia
Concert Venue: St. Etienne Abbey Church
Location: Caen, France
Dec. 6, 2019

# 80TH BIRTHDAY CONCERTS:

Svoboda drawing.

# STRING QUARTET No. 6, Op.185
# STRING QUARTET No. 10, Op.194
# STRING QUARTET No. 12, Op.202a (Post Scriptum)
Date: Fri., Dec. 6, 2019 [7:30 PM]
Performers: Delgani String Quartet
Concert Venue: Tsunami Books
Address/City: 2585 Willamette St.; Eugene, OR
Concert & Ticket Information at: delgani.org.
Eugene Weekly article: " Oregon Legends".

Date: Sat., Dec. 7, 2019 [8 PM]
Performers: Delgani String Quartet
Concert Venue: Lincoln Recital Hall
Location: Portland State University
Address/City: 1620 SW Park Ave; Portland, OR
Concert & Ticket Information at: delgani.org.
Eugene Weekly article: "Oregon Legends".

*VIDEO: String Quartet No. 6 (3rd movt.) posted at Oregon ArtsWatch.org.

** Drawing by Jana Demartini
Jun. 23, 2019

DIGITAL DOWNLOADS  & STREAMING:

The following Digital Music Retailers have added 6 more "all-Svoboda" CD recordings (85 tracks) on their websites, which are now available for download, streaming, music on demand, purchase in various formats, etc., throughout the world.

Direct links to Svoboda music digital CD listings: Links to more online Digital Music Retailer homepages:
Apple Music and iTunes Store
Spotify
Pandora
...plus many other online services throughout the world.
Mar. 22, 2019

RECENT PERFORMANCES:

CONCERTO for Marimba & Orchestra, Op. 148
Date: Sat., April 13, 2019 [7:30 PM]
Date: Sun., April 14, 2019 [2:30 PM]
Performers: Bozeman Symphony Orchestra
Guest Conductor: Sameer Patel
Soloist: Neeraj Mehta, marimba
Concert Venue: Willson Auditorium
Address: 404 W Main St.
Location: Bozeman, MT 59715
More Information: here
May 8, 2018

ADDED YouTube Video:

# CONCERTO for Marimba & Orch., Op. 148
Performers: Brno Philharmonic with Janáček Academy of Music musicians
Conductor: Maros Potokar (cond.)
Soloist: Kristyna Karchová (marimba)



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Score
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Part
YouTube logo
(Video)
 [1] Con Moto view view Watch
 [2] Adagio view view Watch
 [3] Vivace view view Watch

* Audio & Video: Standard YouTube License.

** Additional information on the Marimba Concerto webpage.
Apr. 15, 2018

ADDED YouTube Video:

# SIX VARIATIONS for Violin & String Orch., Op. 32 (1961)
Date of Performance: April 23, 2017
Presented By: Camerata PYP (Portland Youth Phil.)
Conductor: David Hattner
Soloist: Fumika Mizuno (violin)
Venue: Wieden and Kennedy Atrium (Portland, OR)

Additional information on: Chamber Orchestra Works webpage.



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Score
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Vln
mp3
320k
YouTube logo
(Video)
Allegro ma non troppo view view listen Watch

* Audio & Video:2017 Portland Youth Philharmonic.
** This work has also been published as: "SIX VARIATIONS for Violin & Piano, Op. 32a".
Feb. 9, 2018

RECENT PERFORMANCE:

# CONCERTO for Marimba & Orchestra, Op. 148
Date: Sat., Mar. 17, 2018 [7:30 PM]
Performers: Wyoming Symphony Orchestra
Conductor: Matthew Savery
Soloist: Neeraj Mehta, marimba
Jan. 25, 2018

UPDATE ON TOMAS SVOBODA:

Tomas Svoboda has moved to a residential care home located in southeast Portland, Oregon, where he is able to receive 24/7 assistence and more opportunities to interact and go on special excursions around the state, with fellow residents, under the guidance of the care facility staff.

Tomas is continuing his various therapy sessions, but has yet to resume his composing endeavors.

For those friends and former colleagues who wish to visit Tomas; and he does love to have visitors, do call ahead to see if he will be available that day.

For those who wish to send their best wishes, you may send your cards or letters to the address below.

(This address has been updated Aug. 25, 2022)
Tomas Svoboda
c/o Arcadia Senior Living
13031 SE Foster Rd.
Portland, OR 97236 USA
May 19, 2017

PYP Camerata

IMPORTANT PERFORMANCE:

OVERTURE OF THE SEASON for Orchestra, Op. 89
Date: May 30, 2017
Performers: Prague Symphony Orchestra (FOK)
Conductor: Jonathon Heyward
Presenter: Prague Spring International Music Festival
Venue: Smetana Hall, Municpal House
Location: Prague, Czech Republic
More information: about this concert.

       mp3
Audio excerpt
(Not this perf.)


# List of 278 other performances sorted by:
     Orchestras (145)   *  Conductors (95)
May 19, 2017

PYP
WORLD PREMIERE: Added Letter from Nadia Boulanger (sent 1979)

SYMPHONY No. 2 (of Love & War) for Orchestra, Op. 41
    (1963-64; revised 2012)
[43:00] (131p.) (TCS-176)
Instr.: 322(Bcl)2/4331/Timp/4 perc/pno/strings (perc.: 2 players)
Date of Premiere: Sat. Nov. 12, 2016
Performers: Portland Youth Philharmonic
Conductor: David Hattner
Venue: Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
Location: Portland, Oregon USA

gif
Score
mp3
192k
YouTube logo
(Video)
 [1] Con moto view listen Watch
 [2] Lento view listen Watch
 [3] Allegro
       vivace
view listen Watch
 [4] Moderato view listen Watch

* Video captured, edited and produced by Tom Emerson Video Productions;
* Audio recorded and mastered by Roderick J. Evenson.
* Video & Audio: © 2016 Portland Youth Philharmonic.

* Redistribution of the score, audio or video files by any method or in any format is prohibited without written permission from the copyright owners.


# Letter from Nadia Boulanger about Symphony No. 2, Op. 41:

Below is a letter from Nadia Boulanger to Tomas Svoboda's publisher in 1979, 6 months before Mme. Boulanger's death. Her letter was inspired by the "2nd Movt - Lento." of Tomas Svoboda's "Symphony No. 2 (of Love & War), Op. 41." [Click image to enlarge]

Boulanger image

# Published Articles about Symphony No. 2 (of Love & War):

1) "Tomas Svoboda’s Symphony #2: A love story in four movements" (Oregon ArtsWatch - Brett Campbell)
2) "Portland composer's long-lost symphony about love and war finally gets world premiere" (The Oregonian)
May 3, 2017

RADIO BROADCASTS:

OVERTURE OF THE SEASON for Orchestra, Op. 89
Station: Australian Broadcasting Corp. (Sydney, NSW)
Show: "A Seasons Miscellany"
Host: Rex Burgess
Date: Dec. 27, 2016
(from Orchestra Works CD.)
Dec. 6, 2015

TODAY IS TOMAS SVOBODA'S 76TH BIRTHDAY:

On Dec. 12, 2012, Tomas Svoboda suffered a massive
stroke, which left him comatose and which the prognosis was that he would never regain consciousness.

Not accepting that diagnosis, the incredible pro active endeavors by his wife, Jana Demartini; his daughter, Lenka; and his son, Martin; saved Tomas' life.

Though the recovery over the past 3 years has been extremely difficult and continues to be challenging, this recent photo shows that Tomas' spirit and zest for life has returned.


Svoboda 2015


To all those who have visited him, written to him, said prayers for him over the past 3 years, know that he and his family are so grateful for your kind thoughts and efforts to lift his spirits, as well as your emcouragement in his recovery, as it has truly helped him during his arduous, challenging, daily and weekly therapies that he's had to go through and continues to have to endure on his long journey back to being able to compose again.

For those who wish to send their best wishes, you may send your cards or letters to the address below.

Tomas Svoboda
4729 SE 34th
Portland, OR 97202 USA

Emails may also be sent via this website (info@TomasSvoboda.com) and they will be forwarded to Tomas' family for reading to Tomas, but he will not able to respond personally, due to his current medical condition.
April 7, 2015

NEWSPAPER ARTICLE on Tomas Svoboda:

The Oregonian/OregonLive.com article
Title: "After a massive stroke, Portland composer plans to attend concert by his Czech mates."
Author: David Stabler
Published: April 7, 2015
Link to article: here.
April 5, 2015

UPDATE ON TOMAS SVOBODA'S RECOVERY:

Tomas Svoboda continues his recovery at home in Portland, Oregon. The effects from a massive stroke suffered on Dec. 12th 2012 continue to present great challanges for Tomas, but he has a positive attitude and is working very hard to regain the use of his right arm and right leg.

With assistance, Tomas is now able to stand up and walk a short distance with a brace on his leg.

Though he has not yet returned to composing, he says he's hearing music ideas in his head again, so that is a very promising development.

For those who play chess, Tomas is now playing chess again, so if you visit, ask if he's up for a game. Lastly, one should call before visiting, to see if Tomas is home, as he will continue to have many medical appointments and therapy sessions.

For those who wish to send their best wishes, you may send your cards or letters to the address below.

Tomas Svoboda
4729 SE 34th
Portland, OR 97202 USA
Sept. 16, 2014

UPDATE ON TOMAS SVOBODA'S RECOVERY:

On Sept. 12th, Tomas Svoboda returned to his home in southeast Portland, Oregon to continue his recovery from a massive stroke suffered on Dec. 12th 2012. His whole family was there for the weekend to celebrate his homecoming.

Tomas is so excited to finally be back home and looks forward to having friends and colleagues visit him there.

Those wishing to visit Tomas should wait until the week of Sept. 22nd to do that.

One should also call before visiting to see if Tomas is home, as he will continue to have many medical appointments and therapy sessions.

Keep in mind, also, that Tomas will be taking regular daily naps between 1:30 - 2:30PM.

For those who wish to send their best wishes, you may send your cards or letters to the address below.

Tomas Svoboda
4729 SE 34th
Portland, OR 97202 USA
PHONE (for visiting information): 503-894-8559
July 22, 2014

UPDATE ON TOMAS SVOBODA'S RECOVERY:

Tomas Svoboda's recovery from the stroke he suffered Dec. 12, 2012 continues, though slowly. He still resides in an Adult Care Home near his own house in southeast Portland, Oregon.

Though paralyses in his right arm and leg persist, he has has become able to lift his right leg off the floor. His conversational ability has shown the most improvement since last summer, though recent adjustments to his medications sometime cause him extreme fatigue, lack of concentration and sleepiness. He nevertheless, has enjoyed a few recent "outings" to social events and at least one concert and still thoroughly appreciates the visits, cards and letters from friends and music colleagues.

For those who wish to send their encouragement and best wishes, you may send your cards or letters to the address below.

Tomas Svoboda
c/o Gligan Foster Care
6111 SE 43rd Ave.
Portland, OR 97206-7010 USA

Visiting hours are between 9am & 7PM. His lunch and dinner times vary, but are approximately between 12PM-1PM and 5PM-6PM. To check if Mr. Svoboda is available for a visit, the foster home phone number is: (503) 777-5552; ask for Augustin or Anna. If visiting, please remember to leave a note in Tomas' "Visitor's Book".
Dec. 7, 2013

UPDATE ON TOMAS SVOBODA'S RECOVERY:

Tomas Svoboda continues to show improvement in his recovery from the stroke he suffered Dec. 12, 2012. He is still residing in an Adult Foster Care Home near his own house in southeast Portland, Oregon.

Though the paralysis in his right arm and leg persists, his conversational ability has shown the most improvement since summer and he's enjoying the visits from friends and music colleagues greatly.

Tonight, Mr. Svoboda will be celebrating his 74th birthday (Dec. 6, 1939) by going out with family to enjoy one of his favorite foods...sushi...and will return to his care home to listen to a KQAC-FM ("All Classical Portland") broadcast of his CONCERTO for Clarinet & Orchestra during the program "Club Mod" (8-10 PM), hosted by Robert McBride.

For those who wish to send their encouragement and best wishes, you may send your cards or letters to the address below.

Tomas Svoboda [The address below is now obsolete]
c/o Gligan Foster Care
6111 SE 43rd Ave.
Portland, OR 97206-7010 USA

Visiting hours are between 9am & 7PM. His lunch and dinner times vary, but are approximately between 12PM-12:30PM and 5PM-5:30PM. To check if Mr. Svoboda is available for a visit, the foster home phone number is: (503) 777-5552; ask for Augustin or Anna.
May 2, 2013

UPDATE ON TOMAS SVOBODA'S RECOVERY:

Tomas Svoboda was transferred on April 30th to an Adult Foster Care Home near his own house in southeast Portland, Oregon. For those who wish to send their best wishes, you may send your cards or letters to the address below.

Tomas Svoboda [The address below is now obsolete]
c/o Gligan Foster Care
6111 SE 43rd Ave.
Portland, OR 97206-7010 USA

Visiting hours are between 9am & 8PM, except between 12PM-12:30PM and 5PM-5:30PM (lunch and dinner hours).
April 20, 2013

UPDATE ON TOMAS SVOBODA'S RECOVERY:

Tomas Svoboda was moved April 11th to the Rehabilitation Institute of Oregon (RIO) at Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center in Portland, Oregon, where he will undergo various comprehensive therapies administered by an interdisciplinary team of physicians.

For those who wish to send their best wishes, you may send your cards or letters, to be received by April 30th,
at the address below.

Tomas Svoboda
c/o Rehabilitation Institute of Oregon
Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center
6th Fl., Room 8
1015 N.W. 22nd Ave.
Portland, OR 97210 USA

[This posting edited April 20, 2013]


FEATURED ARTICLE ON TOMAS SVOBODA:

David Stabler, Arts & Features Writer for The Oregonian
newspaper, has written an informative article on Tomas Svoboda's slow recovery from a massive stroke, which occurred last December 12th in Portland, Oregon.

The article also covers the upcoming World Premiere this Thursday night (April 18th) of Svoboda's CONCERTO for Clarinet & Orchestra, which was commissioned by the Eugene Symphony Orchestra.  Published this morning, the article can be found on the OregonLive.com website.


 
WORLD PREMIERE:

CONCERTO for Clarinet & Orchestra, Op. 202
Commissioned by: Eugene Symphony Orchestra
Date of Premiere: April 18, 2013 [Thurs. - 8PM]
Conductor: Danail Rachev
Soloist: Michael Anderson
Location: Eugene, Oregon
Venue: Silva Concert Hall, Hult Center

 
AUDIO SAMPLES: There are now 260 audio samples of Tomas Svoboda's music on this website.

SHEET MUSIC SAMPLES: There are now 900+ pages of sample sheet music on this website. Additional audio clips and pages of sheet music will be added for those compositions not yet having them.

SHIPPING POLICY: FREE SHIPPING now available for all orders over $20.00 (U.S. retail sales only). Choose "Media Mail" when ordering.
Apr. 20, 2013

UPDATE ON TOMAS SVOBODA'S RECOVERY:

Tomas Svoboda was moved April 11th to the Rehabilitation Institute of Oregon (RIO) at Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center in Portland, Oregon, where he will undergo various comprehensive therapies administered by an interdisciplinary team of physicians.

For those who wish to send their best wishes, you may send your cards or letters, to be received by April 30th, 2013
at the address below.

Tomas Svoboda
c/o Rehabilitation Institute of Oregon
Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center
6th Fl., Room 8
1015 N.W. 22nd Ave.
Portland, OR 97210 USA

[This posting edited April 20, 2013]


FEATURED ARTICLE ON TOMAS SVOBODA:

David Stabler, Arts & Features Writer for The Oregonian
newspaper, has written an informative article on Tomas Svoboda's slow recovery from a massive stroke, which occurred last December 12th in Portland, Oregon.

The article also covers the upcoming World Premiere this Thursday night (April 18th) of Svoboda's CONCERTO for Clarinet & Orchestra, which was commissioned by the Eugene Symphony Orchestra.  Published this morning, the article can be found on the OregonLive.com website.

 
WORLD PREMIERE:

CONCERTO for Clarinet & Orchestra, Op. 202
Commissioned by: Eugene Symphony Orchestra
Date of Premiere: April 18, 2013 [Thurs. - 8PM]
Conductor: Danail Rachev
Soloist: Michael Anderson
Location: Eugene, Oregon
Venue: Silva Concert Hall, Hult Center
Feb. 13, 2013

THE PASSING OF JAMES DEPEIST:

It was with deep sadness by both Tomas Svoboda and this Publisher, to hear of the passing of the internationally renowned conductor James DePreist on Feb. 8, 2013.

James DePreist was responsible for the world premieres of three major orchestral works by Tomas Svoboda:

Symphony No. 1 (of Nature), Op. 20 (rev. version)
Symphony No. 5 (in Unison), Op. 92
Concerto for Marimba & Orchestra, Op. 148

James DePreist not only commissioned Tomas Svoboda's Marimba Concerto while Music Director of the Oregon Symphony Orchestra, but he also wanted this work included on an "all-Svoboda CD" and the recording of that composition received a 2003 GRAMMY Nomination.

In addition, James DePreist shared another work by Tomas Svoboda: Overture of the Season, Op. 89 with other major orhestras around the world, such as the Philadelphia, Boston, Monte Carlo and Sapporo (Japan) symphonies.


[ A personal note from this Publisher about James DePreist ]

"What I will always remember and will always respect James DePreist for, above all... is this:

"When Maestro DePreist saw the newly published score of Tomas Svoboda's Symphony No. 5 (in Unison), Op. 92 (ca. 1986), he immediately recognized the significance and uniqueness of a "unison" symphony in the historical context of orchestral literature. I suspect the fact it was Tomas's 5th Symphony was not lost on him either.

"James DePreist could have conducted the premiere of this symphony himself, but he chose instead, to share with his audiences the special memory of witnessing the world premiere of a monumental work, conducted by its composer, Tomas Svoboda.

"I was sitting in the front row, to the right and very close to the podium, on the first night of three performances.

"That premiere was, and is still so after 25 years, the single most memorable, visual, musical experience in my 38 years of publishing Tomas Svoboda's music. I will be forever grateful to James DePreist for giving me that profound, personal and professionally inspiring, lifelong memory." - [ Thomas C. Stangland ]

Wikipedia listing of James DePreist


TOMAS SVOBODA's Recovery from Massive Stroke:

Tomas Svoboda suffered a massive stroke on the evening of December 12th 2012.

 
Tomas Svoboda has been returned to a skilled care center near his home in Portland, Oregon, after undergoing a 2nd surgery. In spite of the initial medical prognosis after his stroke, Tomas Svoboda's spirit and determination to fully recover has become very apparent, as there are now daily signs of improvement in speech, transitioning to eating some food normally, etc.. However, Tomas Svoboda is still paralyzed on his right side.

In spite of that, when his publisher visited him last week, it was noticed Tomas Svoboda was constantly moving all five fingers of his left hand, on top of his bed cover, as if playing a piano. When questioned about that, Mr. Svoboda, uttered, "I'm hearing music." When asked what kind of music?...Tomas Svoboda responded..."my next composition". He'll be questioned during a future visit about what he's composing!

[this posting edited Apr. 13, 2013]
Dec. 23, 2011

NEW RECORDINGS:

Belgique CD

SONATA for Viola & Piano, Op. 36
Performers: Joël Belgique (vla.) & Tomas Svoboda (pno.)
CD Title: Mid-Century Modern: Four Sonatas for Viola and Piano
Record Label: Joël Belgique
Additiional information & audio samples at: CD Baby.



Zuzannah L'ark CD

Božena Němcová Pohádky
Narration of a Czech folktale "O Slunečníku, Měsíčníku a Větrníku" by Božena Němcová.

Performers: Zuzannah L'ark (narrator) with music by Tomas Svoboda (pno.)
(Music from "Children's Treasure Box, Vols. 1-4")
CD Title: Božena Němcová Pohádky
Record Label: Zuzannah L'ark
Additiional information & audio samples at: CD Baby.
Jan. 28, 2011

PERFORMANCES:

AGNIESZKA LASKA DANCERS (Portland, OR)
Event: Fertile Ground Festival
Showcase Series: Dance Coalition of Oregon presents:
   "Botanical Madness"
Selected Music: "Nine Etudes in Fugue Style (Vol.II),
     Op. 98 (movts. 15 & 16)"
Choreographed by: Agnieszka Laska
Date: Jan. 29, 2011 (8PM)
Venue: Polaris' Groovin' Greenhouse
Location: Portland, OR
Nov. 14, 2010

PERFORMANCES:

MTAC CONTEMPORARY MUSIC FESTIVAL
    (Music Teachers Association of California))
Date: Nov. 14, 2010
Location: Los Angeles Valley College
Students of Nobuyo Nishizaka

SUITE for Piano, 4-hands, Op. 124 (1st mov.)
    (Claire Diaz and Hannah Reynoso)
SONATA for Two Pianos, Op. 55 (3rd mov.)
    (Eri Wong and Tabitha Reynoso)
AUTUMN for Piano, Op. 110a (1st mov.)
    (Sabrina Tsoi)
SUITE for Piano, 4-hands, Op. 124 (3rd mov.)
    (Ayaka Omoto and Nicole Feng)
FOUR WALZES for Piano, Op. 68 (1st mov.)
    (Rintaroh Shima)
Nov. 11, 2010

WORLD PREMIERE:

STRING QUARTET No. 11
Performers: Third Angle Ensemble
Date: Nov. 11th & 12th, 2010
Location: Portland, OR
Venue: Lincoln Recital Hall; Portland State University
Nov, 5, 2010

PERFORMANCES:

BRASS QUINTET, Op. 112
    (The Oregon Brass Quintet)
SUMMER FRAGMENTS for Sopr. & Piano, Op. 139
    (Tomas Svoboda, pno.; Nancy Wood, sopr.)
CHILDREN'S TREASURE BOX (Vol. 5), Op. 199a
    (Tomas Svoboda, pno.)

Concert Series: Cherry Blossom Musical Arts
Program: "Art Music Live in the 21st Century"
Date: Nov. 5, 2010
Location: Eugene, OR
Oct. 16, 2009

FEATURE ARTICLE on Tomas Svoboda (with audio)

OREGON MUSIC NEWS
Date of Publication: Oct. 16, 2009
Title: "Tomas Svoboda: Retired? Hardly!"
Writer: James Bash
To read article, visit Oregon Music News.
Aug. 5, 2007

PUBLISHED ARTICLE:

THE SUNDAY OREGONIAN
Date: Aug. 5, 2007
Title: "What's age got to do with it? Music in the key of time."
Author: David Stabler [The Oregonian Staff]
Subject matter: A look at the concept of "late style" artistic endeavors in general, with a focus on two of Oregon's musical elder statemen, Tomas Svoboda and David Schiff.
July 27, 2007

CD RECORDING REVIEW:

Sequenza21 reviews Tomas Svoboda's new Children's Treasure Box CD recording. Full review of CD at Sequenza21.com.

"These are fun little pieces that will engage and entertain young beginners...and I think there is charm and wit for any level of pianist."

"...any piano educator should have these pieces in their bag for their students."
[Jay Batzner]


WEBSITE UPDATE:

Created 410 new webpages containing 894 pages of sheet music in the GIF format. Faster page loads, plus Adobe Acrobat Reader no longer needed to view music samples. PDF files, however, have been retained for use in printing or downloading music samples for offline perusal.
Feb. 20, 2007

WEBSITE UPDATE:

Added new CD recording by Mitsuki Dazai:

Koto CD

Autumn - Music for solo Koto

...to the Recordings (Discography) webpage, with a link to the CD's own page, which now contains mp3 audio clips of Tomas Svoboda's AUTUMN for Koto, Op. 110.
Nov. 30, 2006

SHEET MUSIC SAMPLES: added more sample pages of music:

THREE FUGHETTAS for Piano, 4-hand, Op. 12 (1956)
BAROQUE QUINTET, Op. 37 (1962)
LEGACY for Brass Septet, Op. 133 (1962)
PRELUDE & FUGUE for String Quartet, Op. 5 (1954-1986)
PROLOGUE for Clarinet, Harpsichord & Percussion, Op. 61
SONATA for Violin & Piano, Op. 73 (violin part)
CHORALE in E flat for Piano Quintet, Op. 118
SYMPHONY No. 6 for Clarinet & Orch., Op. 137 (clarinet part)
Oct. 27, 2006

NEW PUBLICATIONS: Nine additional works now available; 198 pages of score; 102 pages of performance parts:

BALLADE for Bassoon & Piano, Op. 35
BAROQUE QUINTET for Fl., Ob., Clar., Cello & Pno, Op. 37
BENEDICTUS for Piano, Op. 162
CLASSICAL SONATINE for Oboe & Piano, Op. 28
FUGUE in c-minor on a Theme by Bach, for Piano, Op. 9
FUGUE in d-minor (on Bulgarian National Anthem), Op. 17
DREAMS OF A DANCER, for Flute, Clarinet & Piano, Op. 164
SONATA for Clarinet & Piano, Op. 167
TROIKA in Taiga, for Piano, Op. 21
Oct. 5, 2006

AUDIO SAMPLES: added audio clips of:

STRING QUARTET No. 1, Op. 29 (1961)
STRING QUARTET No. 2, Op. 151 (1996)
from the upcoming "String Quartets - Nos. 1-4" CD.

CONCERTO No. 1 for Piano & Orchestra,, Op. 71
CONCERTO No. 2 for Piano & Orchestra,, Op. 134
from the "Piano Concertos" CD.

OVERTURE OF THE SEASON, Op. 89
CONCERTO for Marimba & Orchestra, Op. 148
SYMPHONY No. 1 (of Nature) for Orchestra, Op. 20
from the "Orchestral Works" CD.
June 24, 2006

AUDIO CLIPS: 51 sample mp3 audio clips from Tomas Svoboda's upcoming CD recording of his "Children's Treasure Box", four-volume piano series, have been posted on the Piano Works and Audio Clips webpages. Additional sample sheet music will be posted, as well.
April 6, 2006

OREGON PUBLIC BROADCASTING (TV): Featured profile of Tomas Svoboda on television program "Oregon Art Beat."
Jan. 7, 2004

Sequenza21.COM: lists Oregon Symphony's "Tomas Svoboda - Orchestral Works" CD as one of their "favorite" CD's of 2003.

To see complete list: visit Sequenza21.com homepage. Look for "Duane's Favorite's 2003".
Dec. 4, 2003

GRAMMY AWARD NOMINATION (2003):
CONCERTO for Marimba & Orchestra, Op.148
"Best Instrumental Soloist(s) Performance With Orchestra"
James DePreist, cond.; Niel DePonte, marimba; Oregon Symphony [ Albany Records ]
Visit Orchestral Works CD recording webpage.
Nov. 10, 2003

CD Reviews: Sequenza21.com" review of Oregon Symphony "Tomas Svoboda - Orchestra Works" CD.

"Amazon.com" customer reviews of the Oregon Symphony "Tomas Svoboda - Orchestra Works" CD.
July 6, 2003

Boston Symphony Orchestra: Tanglewood; "Overture of the Season, Op. 89" performance; James DePreist, cond.
Feb. 9, 2003

Radio Broadcast: "Radio New Zealand" airs entire "Nine Etudes in Fugue Style (Vols. 1 & 2) for piano" CD.

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