2007 The Year of Karol Szymanowski

RESOLUTION Parliament of the Republic of Poland
The16th day of November, 2006

In the matter of naming  2007 the year of Karol Szymanowski

Karol Szymanowski (1882-1937), one of the most prominent, next to Fryderyk Chopin, Polish composers, the first rector of the Warsaw Conservatory after Poland gained independence.  It was he, who, after a period of stagnation in Polish music, following the death of Chopin, gave it an invigorating impulse to progress again.  Nowadays he is recognized as the spiritual father of the Polish music of the 20th century.  He developed his own music style, where he incorporated elements of folk music, this style becoming a signpost for generations of Polish composers.  Without his work, which in the last few decades has been in its renaissance, as well as his efforts as a journalist and educator, Polish music culture would not have achieved the level that places it on the international forefront.  Szymanowski’s music is found in the realm of attention of the most prominent artists in the world, prompting building of an image of Poland.

In 2007 two important anniversaries associated with this outstanding artist are taking place – the 125th anniversary of his birth and the 70th anniversary of his death.

To honor this grand figure, the Parliament o the Republic of Poland anoounces 2007 to be the Year of Karol Szymanowski

THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF THE POLISH PARLIAMENT
Marek Jurek