Seminar with Matěj Kratochvíl, 3. 3. 2025, 14:00

Music and Transnational Identity of Czech Communities in the USA

Abstract: Music is an important part of human identity; it can express differences and similarities. When people move, they take their music with them. During this process, music can change meaning and become entangled in the exchange between various groups. It can help keep one’s identity alive or contribute to acceptance by the majority. Throughout history, music has played a significant role in maintaining the identity of Czechs and in their involvement in American society. The communities of American Czechs vary in history and structure – from rural Texas to big cities such as Cleveland – and the metamorphoses of their musical heritage differ accordingly. How has the role of various musical activities among American Czechs changed over the course of history, and how does the search for what it means to be Czech and American at the same time play into it? The presentation will be based on archival materials and the field research conducted mainly in Cleveland and Chicago. 

Discussant: Michael Cwach (independent researcher and musician)

PONDĚLÍ / MONDAY 3. 3. 2025 , 14:00 CET NA FLORENCI 3, PRAHA 1 5. PATRO / 5TH FLOOR

ONLINE LINK MS TEAMS: ZDE/HERE

Pdf zde/here