On the evening of October 17th, a wonderful concert was presented by maestro Krzysztof Penderecki with violin virtuoso Anne-Sophie Mutter, conductor Maciej Tworek and Sinfonia Varsovia to celebrate Penderecki’s 85th birthday. This is maestro Penderecki’s first visit to the NCPA.

This is maestro Penderecki’s first visit to the NCPA.

Penderecki made his NCPA debut that evening, and 20 years had passed since his first visit to China. Under his leadership, the Sinfonia Varsovia performed Dvořák’s Symphony No. 7 in the first half of the concert. Dvořák integrates Bohemian folk music into this piece, which holds a strong resonance for Penderecki, who is good at seeking inspiration in folk music. From the melodious pastoral songs in Movement I to the strong local color in Movement III and IV, the maestro seemed to sketch a picture of the Czechic pastoral life of the 18th Century for the audience.

Vioin Virtuoso Anne-Sophie Mutter returned to the NCPA with Sinfonia Varsovia.

The second half started with Penderecki’s classic violin solo La Follia performed by Mutter. The solo premiered by Mutter in 2013 is of the same genre as traditional dance music La Follia, but its melody features distinct contemporary style. On stage, Mutter performed it with brilliance, leaving a deep impression on the audience.

The concert thrilled the audience.

Violin Concerto No. 2 “Metamorphosen” was performed by Mutter with conductor Maciej Tworek and Sinfonia Varsovia. Mutter knows very well the concept and humanistic spirit contained in the work. Her performance serves as a link between the “traditional” and “modern” aesthetics, showing her exploration on the future development of musical performance art.

The NCPA specially prepared an early birthday party for the maesto.

After the concert, a specially-prepared early birthday party was held during the autographing session, when Ms. Mutter and Chinese fans celebrated his 85thbirthday in advance through birthday songs and an exquisitely-prepared birthday cake.

Photos by NIU Xiaobei