It is with deep regret and sadness that we have learned Sunday morning the passing of renown polish composer and conductor Krzysztof Penderecki. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and the people of Poland, to whom we convey our deepest condolences. 

Music director, Maestro Kent Nagano offered a heartfelt homage to Penderecki: « The passing of Krzysztof Penderecki is a deeply moving loss for all who love music and life and he will universally be mourned. An Entire generation grew up with his music and his works provided vital important musical and social impulses, especially during the mid 1960-70’s as composer, performer, professor and humanist his creative vision remained an essential part of the musical landscape until his untimely passing. » 

The OSM has maintained a special relationship with the Polish composer and conductor for close to 50 years. In addition to having buy xanax bangkok played many of his works, the OSM had the privilege of being conducted by Krzysztof Penderecki on many occasions, the first time being on March 27, 1979. His most recent appearance was on September 20, 2015, when he conducted the OSM Chorus in the Canadian premiere of his Psalms of David. 

In July of 2018, the OSM took part in the celebrations of Krzysztof Penderecki’s 85th anniversary of birth and performed the St Luke Passion of Penderecki at the ICE, Krakow Congress Center in Poland. Also in July 2018, the Orchestra performed this same work at the opening ceremony of the prestigious Salzburg Festival, in the presence of the imposing piece’s composer. This concert was recorded and the album will be released in spring 2020 by BIS Records. 

Interview that took place in Salzburg with Kent Nagano and Krzysztof Penderecki.