Let the heart ignite

Created on: 16. 12. 2024

Schola Strahoviensis

Schola Strahoviensis is a choir composed of eight members of the Premonstratensian convent, focusing primarily on liturgical singing—Gregorian chant and early vocal polyphony. Since 2019, under the leadership of cantor Fr. Gorazd Krušina O.Praem., the choir has performed at various venues in the Czech Republic (e.g., Zlatá Koruna, Kroměříž) and in Premonstratensian monasteries abroad (Wilten, Schlägl, Roggenburg, Bamberg, Türje, Magdeburg). During the General Chapter of the Order held in Strahov in 2024, the choir premiered the composition *Proprium St. Norberti* by F. Fiala (*1966). Their work is documented on two CDs: *Coram angelis psallam tibi Domine* (2020) and *Columnae spirituales* (2021).

Gorazd František Krušina OPraem (1971)

Born in Hustopeče, South Moravia, Gorazd studied violin at the Brno Conservatory, graduating in 1991. After his conversion, he entered the Premonstratensian monastery at Strahov in 1993, where he encountered Gregorian chant and was influenced by Jaroslav Orel, a Strahov tertiary who guided the community's renewal in church music. After professing his solemn vows in 1998 and completing theological studies at Charles University’s Faculty of Theology, he was ordained as a priest in 1999.

He served as chaplain in Jihlava and later at Svatý Kopeček near Olomouc, where he founded youth choirs (*Juventus* and *Liberi*) dedicated to exploring early vocal polyphony. Gorazd’s interests include Scripture and spirituality. Currently, he resides and serves at Strahov as sub-prior of the convent and a formator. He is also the cantor of the Strahov Monastery and chaplain of the Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.

Interview with Brother Gorazd Krušina

Gorazd, you are a musician through and through—you play the violin and are often seen with a double bass. What kind of music do you enjoy, and who are your favorite composers?

To clarify: I haven’t played the violin in a long time. On the rare occasions I pick it up, it’s always in a very forgiving circle. Standing with a double bass is easier—it gives the impression that one knows how to play, even if you're just leaning on it, and it’s quite photogenic. So yes, I occasionally "cling to it."

I enjoy good music, though defining what that means is always up for debate. I grew up with classical music but never really connected with classicism or romanticism. I’m fond of early music, especially when polyphony and its possibilities emerge. On the other hand, contemporary music can be refreshingly mind-cleansing—it makes me think rather than just overwhelm me with emotions.

Since my student years, Bohuslav Martinů has been my favorite composer. I deeply appreciate his music, thinking, and expression. Among the old masters, Josquin Desprez and Guillaume Dufay have a special place in my heart.

At Strahov, you are entrusted with the role of cantor. Could you explain what this role entails?

This position was essentially reinstated for me, as we previously did not have a designated cantor. My main task is to support the singing of Gregorian chant during Mass and choral prayer, so active participation in singing is my primary focus.

Additionally, I am responsible for organizing the repertoire in line with liturgical requirements, preparing materials for singing, and occasionally teaching the brothers something new. We have two *scholae* in the monastery, which largely overlap in membership. One focuses on Gregorian chant for Holy Mass, while the other explores early polyphonic singing for special occasions.

Are your CDs Coram angelis psallam tibi Domine (2020) and Columnae spirituales (2021) available for purchase?

Yes, the CDs can be purchased at our monastery shop located in the Strahov courtyard, across from the Information Center.

You accompany Masses with Gregorian chant. When do these Masses take place at Strahov? Are they solely vocal, or do they include organ accompaniment?

Choral Masses are newly scheduled for the first Sunday of each month at 6 PM. Gregorian chant is essentially monophonic and cannot be successfully accompanied without compromising its unique quality. This modal music would be forcibly "remodulated" into a different tonal system if accompanied in major or minor keys. However, it is possible to combine chant with organ by interspersing sung antiphons or other chants with organ improvisations on the same theme. The rest depends on the skill of the organist.

How does collaboration with the organist work?

Working with an organist can be a sensitive matter—it depends on the personalities involved. At Strahov, I believe we have a good understanding, and these stylistic issues are fairly well balanced.

Can visitors hear the Strahov Schola perform live? When?

The Gregorian Schola performs regularly at the Sunday choral Masses, which are public. The expanded polyphonic Schola sings less frequently, without a fixed calendar. The best way to catch a performance is either to know someone in the choir or simply to get lucky. For example, we recently sang during Sunday Advent Vespers and will open a concert by the choir *Pueri Gaudentes*. Other opportunities are slowly being prepared.

Can people join the Premonstratensians for choral prayer? When and how?

Yes, every morning at 6:30, we pray Lauds and the Divine Office in the basilica, which is open to the public. Similarly, for weekday Vespers, the basilica is open to the rear section. On Sundays, it’s easiest to attend the evening Mass and stay for Vespers, or join us immediately after the evening Mass. These Sunday Vespers are often streamed online, so those interested can watch beforehand to understand what to expect and then join us in the choir stalls the following week. Anyone interested in experiencing choral prayer with us can contact us, and we’ll explain the details.

How do you see the connection between music and prayer?

The connection is very strong. Music is one of the God-given means to experience prayer. Gregorian chant, for instance, is solely a form of prayer, not merely an aesthetic musical experience. It functions much like preaching or an icon, deepening our perspective on spiritual themes, drawing attention to certain words or connections, and engaging the senses. A good sermon, a beautiful icon, or spiritual music can captivate and inspire enthusiasm for God, igniting the heart.

This also brings up a sensitive topic: the genre and criteria of music that can truly be called spiritual. Not everything with sacred text qualifies as spiritual or liturgical music.

Where do you personally find inspiration for your multifaceted spiritual and musical service?

Primarily in the music itself. It’s like reading the Bible—sometimes nothing resonates on the first read. You need to give it time, let it work on you, and trust in its deeper potential. The same applies to chant or spiritual music, which is usually based on inspired biblical texts. These texts were interpreted musically by someone reflecting on them, letting the tones resonate in their heart. Singing a chant is like listening to a good sermon—a confession of what the scripture means to the preacher rather than a lecture aimed at the listener. Chant was born of contemplation, and this contemplation speaks to me. I try to pass on what I’ve grasped to others.

What is your ideal vision of music in liturgy?

To amplify God’s presence at the altar, focusing everything on Him who gathers us. Anything that draws more attention to itself than to God, or distracts us from Him, is bad music.

Do you have any musical dreams or aspirations you'd like to achieve?

To one day learn to sing the "new song" mentioned in the Book of Revelation.

Would you like to leave a personal message for the readers of this interview?

Never be discouraged. Have an ideal to strive for, but work with what God has called you to and the tools He has placed in your hands. When God sent Moses back to Egypt, where his life was in danger, He gave him nothing but a staff—and His presence and help. Often, the outcome will differ from our plans or dreams, but it’s not about our dreams; it’s about God’s. If I want to serve God through music and singing, I have to accept that His concern is not sold-out halls or flawless performances. He has His vision of what is best here and now. Don’t let discouragement take hold, because God certainly won’t be discouraged.

You can hear Brother Gorazd and Schola Strahoviensis perform on December 18 at the Strahov Basilica.

Tickets for the concert can be purchased via the GoOut.cz platform.