Concerto for Orchestra

Lutosławski’s fiercely intense Concerto for Orchestra is a modern classic – and one of the most powerful musical experiences imaginable in a concert hall. In this work, the orchestra itself becomes the “soloist,” as different sections are brought to the fore and given their moment to shine. Like his Polish predecessors Chopin and Szymanowski, Lutosławski drew inspiration from traditional Polish folk music – but transformed it into something entirely his own.

Folk music runs like a red thread through this concert, which opens with music by Lutosławski’s great inspiration, Hungarian composer Béla Bartók. These Sketches – also known as Pictures – were composed during a time when Bartók was travelling the countryside, collecting folk melodies. The idyllic character of the music reflects this influence.

Between Bartók and Lutosławski, the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra performs Suite en miniature by Czech composer Vítězslava Kaprálová. She was on the path to becoming one of Europe’s most significant composers when her life was tragically cut short at the age of 25. Today, her music is performed with increasing frequency, and like the works of both Lutosławski and Bartók, this suite reveals her deep interest in the folk music of her homeland.

The Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra is conducted by Lithuanian conductor Izabelé Jankuaskaité, who made her debut with the orchestra in 2024.