Tickets for ILYO’s concert in the golden hall of the Szczecin Philharmonic sold out almost entirely. Over the past 12 years, the orchestra has become a cherished part of the city’s
cultural landscape, even though it performs here only once a year. Each concert crowns a week of intensive rehearsals – first in sectional groups, then as a full ensemble. The results
are nothing short of astonishing: a remarkable performance built on just a week of preparation.

A particularly symbolic moment came with the performance of Fantazja Kujawska for piano and orchestra by Maliszewski – a work so rarely played (the last recording dates back to the 1950s) that it could be called its “second premiere.” Together, Aleksandra Świgut, the orchestra, and Przemysław Neumann breathed new life into a forgotten gem, proving that overlooked works can still move and inspire audiences today.

After a weekend of relaxation and yoga workshops led by Iga Drąg, the ensemble now heads to the legendary Gewandhaus in Leipzig. There, they will attempt to enchant the discerning German audience with Polish music and more. Fingers crossed: the Leipzig concert is set for Sunday, August 24, at 8:00 p.m