Vocal Brilliance and Emotional Depth: Karolina Krejčí's Award-Winning Journey
- WOMCO
- 3 hours ago
- 3 min read
Karolina Krejčí was awarded the Diamond Prize in both the Classical B (Over 17) and Romantic B (Over 17) categories, and also received the Max Bruch Remarkable Musicianship Special Prize in the Max Bruch International Music Competition, 2025 Season 2.
Biography
KAROLINA KREJČÍ
Soprano
Born in 2002 in Prague
Work experience
Opera of the National Theatre in Prague - position: assistant director - from 2023 - present
Concert activity since 2021
- cooperation with organists - Jan Kalfus, David Coufal, Martin Bureš, Ondřej Valenta
- cooperation with composers - Matěj Bartoň, Jakub Potoček
- cooperation with pianists - Kristýna Marková
Drama experience
Journey Around the World by Jiří Janků - director: Magdalena Švecová (2023) - role of Femina Jones
Can you introduce yourself and share how you got into music?
My name is Karolina Krejčí. I’m currently a student at the Prague Conservatory, and I also work as an assistant director for the Opera of the National Theatre in Prague. Singing has been part of my life since childhood — it’s always felt like a natural form of expression. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of studying under some of the most respected vocal teachers in the Czech Republic, who helped me shape my voice, my discipline, and my understanding of music as a living language.
Could you tell us more about your award-winning work? For instance, how did you prepare it, bring it to life, or any interesting stories behind the scenes?
For this competition, I prepared my program in close collaboration with my wonderful pianist Kristýna Marková. Her musical sensitivity and emotional intelligence brought immense support and confidence into every rehearsal and performance. I believe that every singer needs a pianist who truly understands them — someone who knows how to highlight the best of what the singer can offer. Working with her was not only deeply inspiring, but it was a testament of how much music depends on trust and collaboration.
What do you believe defines a great opera singer, and how do you incorporate your unique style into your music?
To me, a great opera singer is not defined only by vocal range or volume, but by presence, honesty, and the ability to listen and learn.
I’ve struggled with performance anxiety for many years — sometimes I still do. It’s a process that every person, who wants to become a musician needs to go through. Over time, I’ve learned that vulnerability is not a weakness; it’s part of being human, and it belongs on stage.
I believe the attributes of a truly great singer include vocal freedom, emotional depth, artistic curiosity, humility, and resilience. These are qualities I hope to continue developing as I grow as performer. Education doesn’t end with graduation or the first step on a professional stage — this work is lifelong, and that’s what makes it so meaningful.
Would you like to share your experience participating in our competition and anyone you’d like to thank?
Participating in this competition was both a challenge and a joy. It pushed me to refine details I might otherwise overlook and gave me a chance to reflect on who I am as an artist. I’m truly grateful for the recognition — winning in two categories and receiving the special jury award for remarkable musicianship was an unexpected but deeply appreciated honour.
I would like to thank everyone who supported me, especially my mentors and colleagues, and of course Kristýna Marková for her sensitive and powerful accompaniment.
I would also like to thank the competition committee for listening with interest and open hearts.