Josef Сapek

Josef Capek (Čapek) was a Czech-born composer, conductor and organist who became one of the central musical figures of 19th-century Gothenburg. The son of a Prague organist, he showed early musical ability and performed publicly as a violinist from the age of six. At twelve he entered the Prague Conservatory, studying under Friedrich Dionys Weber and Friedrich Wilhelm Pixis. Born on 19 March 1825 in Prague, he would later become associated with both Czech and Swedish musical life.

After graduating in 1843, he worked at the Estates Theatre in Prague, then moved to Berlin, where he conducted at the Friedrich-Wilhelmstädtisches Theater and later led the Styrian Music Society, touring successfully in Germany and Scandinavia. Following his performances in Sweden, he chose to settle there. From autumn 1848 he emerged as a dominant figure in Gothenburg’s musical life, serving as conductor and organist from 1848 to 1878 and playing a leading role in shaping the city’s cultural landscape.

Čapek composed two symphonies, three masses, Te Deum, several cantatas — notably The Last Judgment — as well as a concert overture, marches, chamber works and orchestral pieces. He remained active in Gothenburg until his death on 14 July 1915.

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