KRZYSZTOF PENDERECKI

Since he embarked on his composing career in the mid-1950s, Krzysztof Penderecki has written an astonishing range of music, some boldly experimental, some neo-Romantic, and some combining both avant-garde and traditional elements. All his compositions are stamped with his own highly individual style and it is this unique musical voice that has established him as one of today’s foremost contemporary composers.

This documentary gives an overview of Penderecki’s life and music. He talks in interview about his influences and musical development, and is seen composing, as well as in rehearsals with soloists and orchestras. Conducting forms an important part of Penderecki’s activities and he finds new ideas through contact with other composers’ music. His Catholic faith and deep attachment to his native Poland have been important catalysts in his work, which includes many large-scale pieces – operas, choral works and symphonies.

Among the examples featured in this programme are excerpts from Threnody for the Victims of Hiroshima, St Luke Passion, Dies irae, The Devils of Loudun, Te Deum and Symphony No. 4. His solo concertos with orchestra have been destined for great artists such as Rostropovich, Siegfried Palm and Anne-Sophie Mutter, all of whom contribute to this film.