Witold Lutoslawski
Persons, originating from Poland

Witold Lutoslawski

Born January 25, 1913 in Warsaw
Died February 7, 1994 in Warsaw
Lutoslawski was one of the major European composers of the 20th century, and one of the pre-eminent Polish musicians during his last three decades. During his lifetime, Lutoslawski earned many international awards and prizes.

During his youth, Lutoslawski studied piano and composition in Warsaw. His early works were influenced by Polish folk music. He began to develop his own characteristic composition techniques in the late 1950s. His compositions (of which he was a notable conductor) include four symphonies, a Concerto for Orchestra, and several instrumental concertos and orchestral song cycles.
After World War II, Stalinist authorities banned Lutoslawski's compositions for being "formalist" and thus accessible only to a perceived elite. But he always opposed the demands of socialist realism. In the 1980s, Lutoslawski used his international stature to support the Solidarity movement.
More information

Polonica stamps:

Gambia 2000, 02 X