Witold Lutoslawski - Opera Omnia Vol. 7

Kosendiak, Andrzej; Wroclaw Philharmonic Orchestra, members; Placzkowski, Karol; Dawiec, Kacper; Lutoslawski Quartet; Polish National Forum of Music Boys' Choir; Dawidziuk, Wiktor; Szuszkiewicz, Antoni; LutosAir Quintet; Szuszkiewicz, Mikolaj; Molczyk, Mariola; Morgiel, Krzysztof; Gozdzikowski, Szymon

Witold Lutoslawski Opera Omnia is a unique series that has been recorded for several years by the National Forum of Music and CD Accord, in which all works by Witold Lutoslawski are being recorded. The latest, seventh album of the series contains songs for children by this outstanding Polish composer performed by the NFM Boys’ Choir, Lutoslawski Quartet, LutosAir Quintet and NFM instrumentalists directed by Andrzej Kosendiak. Like his songs of the popular music variety, Lutoslawski’s creative output for children was associated with Polish Radio, which was in the post-war years the principal incubator of musical creativity in every genre. The Radio was state-owned, however in the texts neither picture-postcard politics nor tiresome didactics are to be found. There is a saying among artists who write for children that their profession requires greater effort and talent than writing for adults ‘because a child is a demanding recipient and cannot abide falsehood.’ Because of this truth, Lutoslawski’s miniatures should be performed with impeccable diction, constant intonation, and an ideal sense of rhythm. A difficult task, but well worth the effort.

Price: $22.99