Václav Luks

Václav Luks founded Collegium 1704, a Prague-based orchestra and choir specializing in historically informed performance, in 2005. The ensemble grew out of an earlier chamber group connected to his studies. Collegium 1704 has since become one of the leading early-music ensembles in Central Europe.

Luks concentrates primarily on Baroque and Classical-era repertoire, with particular emphasis on Czech composers such as Jan Dismas Zelenka and Josef Mysliveček. He has also performed and recorded major works by Handel, Bach, and Mozart using period instruments. His recordings of Zelenka's works have been especially influential in bringing that composer to wider attention.

Václav Luks and Collegium 1704 have made acclaimed recordings of several works by Jan Dismas Zelenka, including his Requiem settings. These recordings have appeared on labels such as Accent and Supraphon. They are considered important contributions to the revival of Zelenka's music, which was long overshadowed by Bach and Handel.

Collegium 1704 is based in Prague and performs regularly at venues including the Rudolfinum and historic churches in the Czech capital. The ensemble also tours internationally and has appeared at major early-music festivals across Europe. Luks established the ensemble's associated festival, the Prague Baroque Music Festival.