Henryk Górecki

Henryk Mikołaj Górecki (1933–2010) was a Polish composer best known for his Symphony No. 3 Op. 36 (Symphony of Sorrowful Songs). His career spanned from mid-20th century avant-garde experiments to later, more tonal and modal sacred-minimalist works.

Born 1933, died 2010. Gained international recognition with Symphony No. 3 (Op. 36). Early career involved avant-garde and experimental techniques; later works are noted for spare textures, slow tempi and a focus on sacred and lamenting texts.

The available review emphasizes the spare, Lento textures and unusual orchestration of Górecki's Symphony No. 3. The reviewer finds the first movement profoundly beautiful and non-cathartic, describing the music as "mournful chants". The overall appraisal is measured (rating 3/5) but admiring of the work's emotional effect.

For:Listeners of contemporary classical and sacred/minimalist music; readers interested in meditative, slow-moving symphonic works.