Now in its 15th year, the Chopin and His Europe festival showcases Chopin’s music in a broad European context. It also promotes other Polish composers whose music is deemed as deserving a wider exposure.
Among the festival’s key themes this year is the father of Polish national opera, Stanisław Moniuszko, who was born 200 years ago, and Polish-Japanese musical links, with the two countries celebrating the centenary of establishing diplomatic relations this year.
Held under the motto “From Chopin to Moniuszko,” this year’s event is set to feature two of Moniuszko’s operas, The Haunted Manor and The Raftsman, as well as the composer’s piano music and songs.
Another highlight of the festival is a Polish debut by the Bach Collegium Japan ensemble led by Masaaki Suzuki. The group is expected to perform symphonies by Mozart and Mendelssohn, in addition to a rendition of Chopin’s piano concerto in E-minor. The concert features young Polish pianist Tomasz Ritter as soloist.
The two-week festival, which runs until September 1, comprises over 30 events, including recitals and orchestral and chamber concerts.
Among the artists featured will be pianists Yulianna Avdeeva, Kevin Kenner and Nelson Goerner.
(jh/gs)
Source: IAR/festiwal.nifc.pl