The performance, part of the ongoing Chopin and his Europe Festival, will feature the Italian period-instruments ensemble Europa Galante, led by conductor Fabio Biondi, alongside a cast of Polish and international soloists and the Podlasie Opera Choir from Białystok.
The Haunted Manor is a staple of Polish opera, telling the story of two brothers who vow never to marry after returning from war, only to have their plans upended by two strong-willed sisters living in a mysterious manor. While highly regarded in Poland, the opera remains relatively unknown abroad, making this performance a significant event in the festival's lineup.
Stanisław Leszczyński, the founder and director of the Chopin and his Europe Festival, highlighted that this performance marks the culmination of a major project to record Moniuszko’s complete operatic works using period instruments.
Over the years, Europa Galante and Biondi, working mostly with Polish soloists, have performed and recorded Moniuszko’s Halka, Flis (The Raftsman), Hrabina (The Countess), Verbum Nobile, Widma (Apparitions), and Paria (The Pariah). Their live recordings are available on the National Chopin Institute label. The Haunted Manor will complete the set.
Reflecting on the project, which began in 2008, Biondi described it as a “fascinating adventure,” adding that he has grown deeply connected to Moniuszko’s music. “It speaks to me with enormous power,” he said.
Sunday's performance will be streamed live on the channels of the National Fryderyk Chopin Institute, offering a global audience the chance to experience this hidden gem of Polish opera.
In addition to the operas, Moniuszko’s output comprises several operettas, over 250 songs, mass cycles, cantatas, and chamber compositions.
(mk/jh)