Jubilee Gem
Those Polish composers may be preposterously difficult to pronounce, but don't let that stop you from zipping down to the Philharmonic Hall for this season's jubilee concerts.
The second jubilee concert of Cracow's Philharmonic orchestra is kicking off tonight, and this time round it's a Szymanowski extravaganza, with three major works due to be performed.
Renowned British conductor Simon Rattle said of Mr. S's work that 'the world is not ready to take it until now.'
Reflecting on the composer's popularity in Poland he added:
"At the end of the twentieth century the rest of the world should discover what you (Poland) have always known: that Szymanowski is one of the greatest composers of this century."
After Chopin, Szymanowski is widely considered to be the finest of Poland's composers. He was born in today's Ukraine (1882), the son of a nobleman, but he lived much of his life in the highland town of Zakopane.
He performed in Cracow many times, and he was eventually buried here in the crypt of the Church on the Rock, a sort of pantheon for outstanding Polish artists.
Tonight's concert (7pm), which is part of the sixtieth anniversary celebrations of Cracow's Philharmonic, will include the performance of Mr. S's Veni Creator Op. 57, his 4th Symphony Concertante and the Stabat Major op. 53. Cracow's Philharmonic Choir will accompany the orchestra.
Competition is likely to be fierce for tickets, but even if the Hall sells out, enthusiastic punters can usually snap up a standing ticket. And if you're feeling inspired to tackle those tricky Polish vowels, it's Shi-man -OFF- skee. Enjoy!