He studied composition with Karel Janecek and Emil Hlobil, and conducting with Method Dolezil at the Music Faculty of the Academy of Music and Performing Arts in Prague (1951-55). On completing his studies he worked there in 1955-57 as an accompanist of vocal department and in the Opera studio. Furthermore, he was employed at the National Theater in Prague (1957-80), the State Ensemble of Songs and Dances in Prague (1980-83), and at a state music school in Prague (1983-95). Since 1995 he has taught music theory at the Grammar School of Jan Neruda ibid. He won 1st Prizes in the competition for a radio opera (1968, Journey to the Star), and in the competition in occasion of the 50th anniversary of Czechoslovakia (for opera Klementina).