Darja’s Rising Star: A Young Composer’s Journey Beyond Performance
Prague, The Gulf Observer: Karlovy Vary-born composer Darja, now in her mid-twenties, is fast emerging as one of the most promising voices in contemporary classical music. Her recent victory in the Under 30s category at the prestigious 71st International Rostrum of Composers marks a major milestone, cementing her place among the rising stars of the global music scene.
The winning composition, Calmness II—a hauntingly ethereal duet for clarinet and vibraphone—was written between 2022 and 2023 and performed by Anna Paulová (clarinet) and Štěpán Hon (vibraphone). The piece captivated the Rostrum jury, comprised of 18 radio delegates from four continents, for its refined texture and emotional depth.
This week’s Sunday Music Show delves into Darja’s musical journey, airing Calmness II and featuring an exclusive interview that offers rare insight into her early beginnings, artistic process, and aspirations.
A Composer at Heart
While many musicians are drawn first to performance, Darja discovered her passion for composition early on.
“It was at the end of my primary-school education. At the time I was playing the piano, I sang and I composed music. Composition just got to me really differently. I just enjoyed it very much,” she reflects. “When I performed music written by others—whether singing or playing piano—it didn’t quite feel right. But when I composed, I thought, ‘yeah, that’s mine, I want to do this, and I want to do this right’. That’s when the decision was made.”
A Family Foundation
Darja’s journey into music wasn’t solitary—her mother, also a musician, played a key role in shaping her path.
“I’m so glad that my mum supported me, because she’s also a musician, and she prepared me for my conservatory exams. She guided me, so I’m really extremely grateful to you, Mum, if you’re listening!”
What’s Next for Darja?
With Calmness II making waves in the contemporary music world, listeners are eager to hear what comes next from this introspective and visionary artist. In the interview, she hints at future works that continue to explore space, silence, and the interplay of sound and emotion—hallmarks of her distinct voice.
As her artistry evolves, one thing is certain: Darja’s music resonates far beyond the score, drawing listeners into moments of serene introspection and subtle power.
Catch the full broadcast of the Sunday Music Show to hear Calmness II and discover the creative world of a composer who’s just getting started—but already speaking with a voice all her own.
