Antonín Felix Slováček, born on 23 May 1943 in Zlín (then part of Bohemia and Moravia, now the Czech Republic), is a distinguished Czech clarinetist, saxophonist, conductor, and composer. He celebrated his 82nd birthday this year.

Early Life & Musical Roots

Initially learning the piano and violin, Slováček transitioned to the clarinet and later the saxophone after high school. He honed his craft at the Conservatory in Kroměříž and the Janáček Academy of Music in Brno.

Musical Career

– Played with renowned ensembles: Karel Vlach Orchestra, Gustav Brom Orchestra, RIAS Big Band, Denmark’s DR Big Band, and Germany’s WDR Big Band.
– From 1969 to 1986, served as lead soloist with Ladislav Štaidl’s orchestra.
– Founded and conducts the celebrated “Felix Slováček Big Band”.
– Over his career, he has sold over two million albums across jazz, pop, and film music.
– Albums include *Saxo*, *Classic Essential*, *Happy-Go-Lucky*, and many others.

Honors

– Earned the Czech Medal of Merit in 2013.
– Awarded the honorary title “Merited Artist of the CSSR”.

Family Life

Since 1983, he has been married to actress Dagmar Patrasová. They have two children:
– Felix Slováček Jr. (b. 1983), a versatile clarinetist, saxophonist, conductor, singer, and actor.
– Anna Slováčková (1995–2025), a singer and actress who sadly passed away earlier this year.
He also has an older daughter, René Slováčková (b. 1977), from a previous relationship.

Future Plans & Ongoing Legacy

Despite his venerable age, Felix continues to lead his Big Band with regular concerts in the Czech Republic and Europe. He also mentors emerging musicians and plans to honor his daughter Anna’s memory through future musical events—potentially including film score projects, live performances, and charity concerts.