As the German newspaper “Die Welt” reports, the composer and conductor died in Krakow on Sunday, March 29, at the age of 86. At a young age his compositional style was ascribed to the avant-garde. His followers believe that his music will be that of the near future. His music can be found not only in the programmes of famous orchestras and many opera houses, but also numerous films have been accompanied by his expressive music (such as “The Shining” and “The Exorcist”).
Penderecki received his musical education at the Music School in Krakow. He soon made a name for himself as a representative of avant-garde composers. However, he achieved his international breakthrough with his work “Threnody to the Victims of Hiroshima”. He has made Germany his home as well as Poland. However, he also spent some time in the USA, where he worked with various orchestras as a composer during 1968-1969.
Penderecki celebrated his 85th birthday with his own music festival and companions from all over the world. He had a long and intense artistic friendship with the German violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter, the result of which was recorded on the album “Hommage à Penderecki”.
Compositions and arrangements for wind orchestra
Compositions for orchestra/chamber music
Compositions for ensembles
Compositions for soloists
Compositions for choir and orchestra
Penderecki catalogue of works at Schott
