Podlasie Opera and Philharmonic

The Podlasie Opera and Philharmonic – European Centre for the Arts named after Stanisław Moniuszko in Białystok is the largest artistic institution in northeastern Poland. Its building was opened on September 28, 2012. The architectural design, created by Professor Marek Budzyński, is characterized by a minimalist style, with dominant raw concrete, glass, and wood. Its interior is decorated with glass elements that reference music. The building is surrounded by a garden featuring vegetation typical of the Podlasie region and a panoramic terrace with the sculpture "Head of a Composer." During the 9 months of the 58th artistic season at the Podlasie Opera and Philharmonic – European Centre for the Arts, approximately 380 events took place, and the institution was visited by over 59,000 people. The history of the institution dates back to 1954, when the State Symphony Orchestra was established, which gained philharmonic status in 1974. In 2005, construction of the new building began, and the artistic season was inaugurated with a musical and operas. The Podlasie Opera and Philharmonic offers a rich repertoire, including operas, musicals, symphony concerts, and festivals, and collaborations with outstanding artists enhance its prestige. The Podlasie Opera and Philharmonic is home to the Orchestra and Choir, as well as the Children's Choir and chamber ensembles, which regularly perform at festivals both in Poland and abroad. In 1995, the Podlasie Opera and Philharmonic Orchestra performed at Carnegie Hall in New York, and in 2009, the Choir received the Fryderyk Award for its debut album. The Podlasie Opera and Philharmonic is also involved in educational activities, organizing workshops and concerts for children and youth. Over the years, the institution has been led by outstanding directors, contributing to its development as a key cultural center in the region. An interesting fact is that the new building is equipped with a modern audio description system, making the artistic offerings accessible to people with various types of disabilities.