Jubilee Concert

In early 1880, extensive preparations were underway for the jubilee concert (on January 4) marking the fiftieth anniversary of Smetana's first public appearance in Litomyšl. This concert, intended as his final appearance as a pianist before a large audience, featured not only Smetana's own compositions but works by Chopin, at his insistence. The evening proved deeply moving and enjoyable, presenting a program rich in significance for both the composer and his listeners. Smetana received enthusiastic applause, and when called back to the piano, he performed his own polka—a piece described as “so Czech, so profoundly Czech—offering a final, heartfelt expression of gratitude for the affection he had been shown.” Congratulations and warm greetings poured in from across Bohemia. In a letter to Procházka dated February 18, 1880, Smetana humbly noted: “My artistic endeavors do not merit so much glory from all quarters. I have been moved to tears!”

The Two Widows in Hamburg

During that period, Smetana's friend Procházka moved to Hamburg, where his wife was engaged as a soprano at the Hamburg Municipal Theater. Procházka quickly became involved in the city's musical scene, regularly sending reports to Dalibor.