This evening is dedicated to lovers of Polish music, in honour of the 100th anniversary of the country’s independence. When we talk about Polish music, the name Chopin inevitably comes to mind. His presence throughout the evening will be felt, not only in his own piano concerto but also in Tasman’s Four Polish Dances. While the 20th-century composer spent most of his life in France, he was greatly influenced by Polish music, including Chopin. The same can be said of Szymanowski's music, where besides the Polish sound, there is a clear German orientation attributed to Richard Strauss’s influence. The night’s music is a good example of the Polish world’s deeply engrained character and culture.
The Four Polish Dances were written for a symphonic orchestra in a form that includes four separate movements. The format of the four movements (fast side movements and a slow second movement) make it a symphony, even though the internal format of the movements was inspired by the dances. Chopin's concerto is incredibly personal, inspired by a real-life love affair it is a favourite for movie soundtracks. Szymanowski's Symphony in B Major made its author famous overnight in both Germany and Poland.