Philharmonic plays Karłowicz

It is exactly in this year that we celebrate the 140th birthday of Mieczysław Karłowicz, mountaineer, composer, and most of all Patron of the Philharmonic in Szczecin. Karłowicz only wrote one symphony and six symphonic poems, however, this humble artistic output granted him the title of one of the greatest Polish symphonic composer, owing to his unique sensuality, harmonic richness and philosophical context in the pieces.

Moreover, he left a graceful Serenade op. 2, virtuoso Violin Concerto A-Major, and youthful songs full of charm. What would Karłowicz's artistic output have looked like if he hadn't died in an avalanche at the age of 33? There is no answer.

The symphonic poem 'Stanisław i Anna Oświęcimowie op. 12' is considered by many musicologists as the best, the most perfect highlight of the composer's career. A love story between a Polish Romeo and a Polish Juliet was inspiration for this piece. 'Kościelec 1909' by Wojciech Kilar is one of the best musical apotheosis of Polish highland culture and tribute to Karłowicz, made at the 100th anniversary of his death. It is compared to Szymanowski's 'Harnasie'.