Ladies and Gentlemen!


The music of Stanisław Moniuszko reflects a unique "Polishness" which for decades has been at the roots of our culture. It has helped our nation to find its own identity and has fanned the flames of hope in our struggle for freedom.

The "Father of Polish Opera" who outside Poland still remains relatively unknown and little appreciated, composed a total of over 300 vocal pieces, national dances and religious songs helping to lay the foundations of our national identity which allowed the Polish nation to survive a "Region of Terror".

The Competition was found in June 1992 under the auspices of the National Philharmonic in Warsaw, followed by three further events held in April 1995 (National Philharmonic), October 1998 and April 2001 (both Teatr Wielki - National Opera). Preparations are now under way for the Fifth Moniuszko Competition (anniversary edition), supported by Polish Ministry of Culture and by the Teatr Wielki - National Opera who will host the event in May 2004.

I would like to warmly invite young singers of all cultures throughout the world.

Our aim is not only stimulate interest in the music of Moniuszko, but also to draw attention to the works of Paderewski, Karłowicz and Szymanowski as well as Lutosławski, Penderecki and Górecki, who are already ranked among the world's leading composers headed by the towering presence of Chopin. I am convinced that as in previous years, our Competition will attract many fascinating artistic personalities.