Ladislav Pazdera Concerts

Experience Ladislav Pazdera

Ladislav Pazdera (born November 22, 1938, in Prague, died February 27, 2023) was a highly respected Czech classical accordionist. He is widely considered one of the most significant figures in the development of classical accordion performance and pedagogy. Pazdera began his studies at the Prague Conservatory and later with Hugo Gottfridson in Trossingen, Germany, significantly expanding the instrument’s repertoire beyond traditional folk music.

His international career spanned decades, performing extensively throughout Europe, North and South America, and Asia. Pazdera championed contemporary composers, commissioning and premiering numerous works specifically for the accordion – pieces by figures like Luciano Berio, Sofia Gubaidulina, and Krzysztof Penderecki became cornerstones of his performances. He was a professor at the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague for over forty years, influencing generations of accordionists.

Pazdera’s playing was characterized by technical brilliance, nuanced phrasing, and a dedication to expanding the artistic possibilities of the instrument. He received numerous awards including the Czech State Prize and was a laureate of international competitions.