Album Notes

This CD is a collection of Czech and Slovak folk songs including four Christmas carols. These songs are hundreds of years old and some depict the life of the area where they originated. Most were composed by the very people who lived and worked on the land. The composers are unknown. The subjects often deal with agriculture, boy friends, girl friends, daily activities in the villages, wine and beer, celebrations, weddings, etc.

This CD has been prepared by international husband & wife team, Mark from the United States and Helena from the former Czechoslovakia. Each began performing their art at age five in their respective countries. Over the years Mark progressed on the accordion. Meanwhile from age seven throughout her childhood Helena sang on Czechoslovak National Radio and performed in musicals on both Czechoslovak National TV and live theater in Prague. The two met as students at the University of Hamburg in Germany, and during this time they began to perform together. Helena sang and Mark accompanied her on the accordion. Later they were married in Prague, today’s capital of the Czech Republic. Not long after that, Helena joined Mark to live in the U.S., and they both continue to enjoy frequent trips to perform and study in Europe.

Mark and Helena have performed for many years, presenting a unique blend of Czech, Slovak and other European folk songs as well as modern classics, cabaret numbers and selections from musicals. Helena also performs as a singer, dancer and actor in local theaters in Portland, Oregon.

Mark and Helena are the founders of GREATHOUSE of Music. They sell and distribute their own books on music and dance. They also have a line of CDs. For more info please visit: www.greathouseofmusic.com.