Bedřich Smetana

Smetana is considered the father of Czech music.

Young Smetana dropped out of school in Prague, where he was mocked by classmates for his country manners.

Although he was a small, physically weak man, Smetana was stubborn, determined and tenacious.

Though he had gone completely deaf, Smetana composed some of his greatest works in his final decade.

After a mental collapse, Smetana died in an asylum.

Attending piano recitals by Franz Liszt inspired Smetana to pursue a musical career.