Moniuszko's contribution to national identity invaluable - president
The contribution of renowned 19th-century Polish composer Stansław Muniuszko to building national identity is invaluable, President Andrzej Duda stated on Sunday during the inauguration of the 'National Concert' initiative.
The president thanked the artists for "these unusual arrangements and the beautiful presentation of the works of one of the absolute greatest masters of music among Poles - Stanisław Moniuszko."
"Despite the fact that Moniuszko did not see a free Poland, his contribution to regaining independence, his contribution to carrying Polish traditions, Polish culture through more than 100 years of partitions, his contribution to the development of Polish society, in building the identity of our nation, is invaluable," the president declared during Sunday's concert in the courtyard of the Presidential Palace.
The 'National Concert' (Narodowe Granie) was initiated by the presidential couple in connection with the 200th anniversary of Moniuszko's birth. The campaign is aimed at "popularising Polish music and strengthening national identity by commemorating outstanding Polish composers and their achievements." The first edition is devoted to Moniuszko's works.
The inauguration of the Narodowe Granie was held on Sunday, May 5, when the composer's birthday fell. (PAP)
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