Held from 15 to 30 August 2016, this year's 12th edition of Chopin and His Europe will typically be a chance to enjoy more than just Chopin's music. Among the highlights is Poland's first concert version of Bellini's opera Capuleti e i Montecchi by Italy's early music ensemble Europa Galante. We will also be treated to overtures to Albert Lortzing's opera Der Pole und sein Kind and Mozart's Der Schauspieldirektor. Opera affectionados will also relish the chance to listen to Rossini's Il Barbiere di Siviglia as transcribed by Vincenzo Gambaro for a wind ensemble, which will come in conjunction with workshops for the youngest music lovers.
The festival's song recitals will feature gems of 19th-century art song performed by the likes of Ian Bostridge (tenor), Mariusz Godlewski (baritone) and Iwona Sobotka (soprano). Those with an appetite for the oratorio and choral music will be pleased to see the programme including Donizetti's Requiem performed by Collegium 1704 on period instruments at the Holy Cross Basilica in Warsaw in front of the crypt where Chopin's heart lies. They should also make sure not to miss Beethoven's Fantasy in C minor for piano, chorus and orchestra Op. 80.
Visit the the festival's website to see the programme in full.
