Rafael Jeroným Kubelík was a renowned Czech conductor and composer, born in 1914 to the celebrated violinist Jan Kubelík. After making his debut with the Czech Philharmonic at age 19, he established an international career, leading the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and The Royal Opera in London. He later became music director of the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra and was a prominent guest conductor with top orchestras worldwide. Kubelík was known for his neo-romantic compositions, which include operas, symphonies, chamber, and choral music. Forced into exile after the Communist takeover of Czechoslovakia, he eventually became a Swiss citizen.