Being barefoot

This book by cellist Michaela Fukačová is not a conventional autobiography, but a rich mosaic of memories, thoughts, and reflections. With a keen observational talent, gentle humour, and disarming openness, the author guides us through the backstage of world stages, childhood experiences, the tranquillity of the Danish landscape, and the depths of human consciousness. Through her stories, she touches upon themes of responsibility and the search for unity in a fragmented world with lightness and sincerity. Each chapter works as a standalone exploration – from encounters with prominent cultural and political figures (Josef Suk, Mstislav Rostropovich, Jiří Dienstbier, Queen Margrethe II of Denmark) to seemingly ordinary meetings with everyday people. Woven between the lines is the quiet conviction that the most precious art is to live with respect for life and its beauty, with authenticity and humility – “barefoot”. Cellist Michaela Fukačová is one of the absolute top performers in her field. Her artistic career, marked by the highest awards from prestigious competitions, including a Grammy Classic award, has taken her to the most renowned world stages and introduced her to exceptional and inspiring personalities of her time.