Smetáček, Václav (1906-1986)

Czech conductor and oboist. He studied at the Prague Conservatory, and played in the Prague Wind Quintet (1928-55). He conducted the Prague Radio orchestra (1934-43) and was often heard with the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra. He made his British debut in 1938. He conducted operas by Smetana, Janáček, Mussorgsky, and Shostakovich in tours of Europe and South America, and in recordings.