Composer. Considered one of the greatest Polish composers in the first half of the 20th century. Born on his family's estate in Tymoszówka in the Ukraine, he studied in Berlin and Warsaw. His music can be divided into three phases. Early works before World War I reflect his appreciation of Frederic Chopin, Richard Wagner and Richard Strauss. Second phase is influenced by the Orient and Mediterranean cultures similar to the music of Claude Debussy and Maurice Ravel and resulted in many of his best known compositions. Third phase beginning in 1921 drew upon Polish folk themes, and defined Polish themed music, which produced his greatest works. But, his music was not readily accepted in Poland. Works include four symphonies, two violin concertos, the operas “Hagith” and “King Roger”, the ballet-pantomime “Harnasie”, the oratorio “Stabat Mater”, as well as numerous piano, violin, vocal and choral compositions. Greatest popular success was his ballet Harnasie, premiered in Prague, and presented at the Paris Opera with high praise by critics and public alike. Health and financial strains brought his work to an end in 1934. Died after a brief stay in a sanatorium in Lausanne, Switzerland.
Composer. Considered one of the greatest Polish composers in the first half of the 20th century. Born on his family's estate in Tymoszówka in the Ukraine, he studied in Berlin and Warsaw. His music can be divided into three phases. Early works before World War I reflect his appreciation of Frederic Chopin, Richard Wagner and Richard Strauss. Second phase is influenced by the Orient and Mediterranean cultures similar to the music of Claude Debussy and Maurice Ravel and resulted in many of his best known compositions. Third phase beginning in 1921 drew upon Polish folk themes, and defined Polish themed music, which produced his greatest works. But, his music was not readily accepted in Poland. Works include four symphonies, two violin concertos, the operas “Hagith” and “King Roger”, the ballet-pantomime “Harnasie”, the oratorio “Stabat Mater”, as well as numerous piano, violin, vocal and choral compositions. Greatest popular success was his ballet Harnasie, premiered in Prague, and presented at the Paris Opera with high praise by critics and public alike. Health and financial strains brought his work to an end in 1934. Died after a brief stay in a sanatorium in Lausanne, Switzerland.
Bio by: Fred Beisser
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