Pavel Klikar, a revered musician, educator, and musicologist, has died at 72 years old. He was renowned for founding the Original Prague Syncopated Orchestra (OPSO) and the instrumental ensemble Musica Antiqua Praha, which focused on baroque music. His death was reported by his long-time friend, Ondřej Havelka, and he was recognized as a pioneer in the authentic interpretation of both baroque music and classical jazz.

Born on January 26, 1954, in Prague, Klikar established OPSO in 1974, emphasizing the authentic performance of jazz music. His versatility allowed him to play the cornet, mellophone, and piano. Throughout the 1980s, the group performed not only in Czechoslovakia but also internationally, solidifying his status as an icon in the world of classical jazz and swing. His contributions significantly shaped the appreciation and understanding of historical jazz styles.

Klikar articulated three foundational principles critical to reviving early jazz: understanding the historical musical context, mastering period arrangement techniques, and utilizing period instruments. These principles guided his work and influenced generations of musicians, ensuring that the legacy of jazz continues to thrive in its authentic form. His passing marks the loss of a dedicated advocate for preserving and interpreting the rich traditions of baroque music and jazz in the Czech Republic.