Connections between works of Henryk Mikołaj Górecki and a view of John Paul II

Abstract

This article aims to show the connections between music of the contemporary Polish composer − Henryk Mikołaj Gorecki and a view of John Paul II. The author proves that the Christian culture and the teaching of the blessed Polish Pope accounted for the composer’s strong source of inspiration. Religious dimension is an integral part of his music, particularly creations of top period of his work, giving it the character of prayerful contemplation. Henryk Mikołaj Gorecki with all his creation respond to the appeal of John Paul II, expressed in his Letter to Artists: “The Church also needs musicians”. Gorecki anew discovered deep spiritual and religious dimension of art, renew a resultful dialogue between the art world and the Church, and this cooperation has become a source of mutual spiritual enrichment. Evidence of this are the works of Gorecki discussed in this article: Amen (1975), Song of Katyn Families (2004) and songs referring to the cult of Mary − the main idea of John Paul II pontificate: Hail or Mary! Mary’s Song (1985), Under Your Care (1985), and Totus Tuus (1987).