Time 19:00
Wiltold Lutosławski Concert Studio of Polish Radio, Modzelewskiego 59, Warsaw
BUY TICKET
Edvard Grieg completed work on the music for Henrik Ibsen’s brilliant dramatic poem Peer Gynt in 1875. The premiere of the piece the following year proved to be an incredible success, and the two suites assembled by the composer from selected fragments of theatre music are today among his most famous works. Although working on what the composer considered to be “the most unmusical of all texts” was challenging, the effort paid off. The score perfectly reflects the blend of fantastical and real elements, the rich spectrum of emotions accompanying the poem’s characters, and the changeable nature of the diverse landscapes. In the enchanting melodies and sophisticated harmony, one can hear both the glow of the African sun and the beauty of oriental dances, but above all, the mysteries hidden in the menacing and enchanting Norwegian mountains.
The second part of the concert will feature the genuinely Polish music of Adam Sołtys. Throughout his life, the outstanding composer, conductor, and teacher developed the musical culture of Lviv. His monumental Symphony No. 2 from 1945, written in a classical-romantic style, draws from the richness of native folklore, and this inspiration is most directly manifested in the third movement. The vigorous Allegretto is based on an authentic wedding song from the Kujawy region, Jużeś nie nasza dziewucha, performed by young people when the engaged couple set off for church. The recurring melody echoes throughout the piece, carrying an extraordinary vibrancy and richness of old folk tradition.
PROGRAM
Edvard Grieg (1843-1907) – Peer Gynt Suite No. 1 Op. 46
Morning Mood
Death of Åse
Anitra’s Dance
In the Hall of the Mountain King
Edvard Grieg (1843-1907) – Peer Gynt Suite No. 2 Op. 55
The Abduction of the Bride. Ingrid’s Lament
Arabian Dance
Peer Gynt’s Homecoming (Stormy Evening on the Sea)
Solveig’s Song
— intermission —
Adam Sołtys (1890-1968) – Symphony No. 2
Allegro moderato
Adagio
Allegretto
Adagio espressivo
PERFORMERS
THE ORCHESTRA OF THE POLISH ROYAL OPERA
KATARZYNA TOMALA-JEDYNAK CONDUCTOR
Duration: approx. 1 h 40 mins (with an intermission)
