Prometheus

Artists:

• Krzysztof Książek – piano
• Oliver von Dohnányi – conductor
• The Łódź Philharmonic Choir (preparation: Artur Koza)
• The Łódź Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra

Program:

• Ludwig van Beethoven – Music for the ballet “The Creatures of Prometheus”, Op. 43 (selection)
• Franz Liszt –  “Prometheus”[15']

BREAK [20']

• Alexander Scriabin – “Prometheus: The Poem of Fire” Op. 60 [25']

Compere: Andrzej Zieliński (The Polish Radio)

Prometheus is one of the most noble characters in the Greek mythology. “He molded him [the man] from clay mixed with tears (…)” writes Jan Parandowski. “He snuck into the enormous granary of the divine flame and brought the first embers to the Earth. He taught the people to purposefully use fire, the arts and the crafts.” The character of the hero who was sentenced to eternal suffering for his generosity has been inspiring artists since the early Ancient period (the tragedy of Aeschylus). “The Creatures of Prometheus” is among the most underrated works of Beethoven despite being one of the rare examples of ballet from the classical era. A much more often performed work is the symphonic poem “Prometheus” by Franz Liszt, in which the composer paints the picture of a courageous, rebellious and indomitable hero. It is possible that he wanted to portray himself as the hero igniting the divine flame of creation even in the face of suffering. Autobiographical motifs are undoubtedly present in “Prometheus: The Poem of Fire” by Alexander Scriabin. The composer considered himself a messiah of art and wanted to give his listeners an opportunity to live through a mystery. He utilized his own system of chords which abandoned tertian harmony and postulated the creation of a tone-colour piano to intensify the listener experience.

At 6:15 PM we invite you to the Henryk Czyż chamber hall for a pre-concert meeting led by Andrzej Zieliński.