Kilar: Bogurodzica / Piano Concerto / Hoary Fog / Koscielec 1909

Immerse yourself in the rich, evocative soundscape of Wojciech Kilar's "Kilar: Bogurodzica / Piano Concerto / Hoary Fog / Koscielec 1909," a captivating collection of works that showcase the Polish composer's mastery of blending traditional and contemporary musical elements. Released in 2006 under the Naxos label, this album spans a little over an hour and eight minutes, offering a diverse range of compositions that will transport you to the heart of Polish musical heritage.

The album opens with "Bogurodzica (Mother of God)," a powerful and textured piece that conveys deep, complex meanings through its martial overtones and intricate structure. This is followed by the three-movement "Piano Concerto," performed with exquisite skill by Waldemar Malicki. The concerto's movements—"I. Andante con moto," "II. Corale," and "III. Toccata"—each offer a unique exploration of Kilar's compositional prowess, with the third movement, in particular, suggesting echoes of Ravel's Piano Concerto.

"Siwa mgla (Hoary Fog)" is another highlight, inspired by the song of the Podhale highlanders and dedicated to the opera singer Andrzej Bachleda-Curuś. This piece, along with "Koscielec 1909," forms part of Kilar's "Kilarian Tatra polyptych," a series of works that pay homage to the musical traditions of the Podhale region.

Throughout the album, the Warsaw Philharmonic Orchestra and Choir, under the direction of Antoni Wit, deliver stunning performances that bring Kilar's compositions to life. The contributions of tenor Wiesław Ochman and pianist Waldemar Malicki further enrich the listening experience, making this album a true celebration of Polish classical music. Whether you're a longtime fan of Kilar's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.