In March, the Podlasie Opera and Philharmonic invites primary school students to a series of unique educational meetings that combine literature, music, and a theatrical adventure. The program includes interactive programs, workshops, and artist meetings, allowing young audiences not only to explore the world of sounds, but also to experience it with all their senses. Each event is designed as a creative lesson – engaging, developing, and age-appropriate.

The first offering is the educational program In the Rhy(th)ms of Tuwim’: The Mystery of Great-Great-Grandfather’s Chest, aimed at primary school students in grades 1-4. It is a poetic journey through words, music, and rhythm inspired by the work of Julian Tuwim. During the workshops, children will learn about the poet and his work, and the main theme of the sessions will be rhythm – present in both poetry and music. The workshops combine literature and music lessons, developing sensitivity and teaching an informed appreciation of art. The workshops will take place on March 3, 4, 5, and 6 on the Podlasie Opera and Philharmonic Chamber Stage at 1 Odeska Street.

Another program is Opera Story – Discover the Secrets of Opera!, an interactive behind-the-scenes tour of the institution. This is a unique opportunity to peer into spaces not normally accessible to the public – the stage, dressing rooms, rehearsal rooms, and technical facilities. Participants will learn how an opera performance is created, how a theater works, the magic of acoustics and the history of the institution. The workshops are presented in the form of theatrical storytelling with game and quiz elements, allowing children to actively participate in uncovering new secrets. The workshops are intended for children aged 5 to 11. The workshops are led by OiFP soloist Rafał Supiński. The workshops will take place on March 9 and 23 in the Podlasie Opera and Philharmonic building at Odeska 1 Street.

In mid-month, young music lovers will be able to embark on a unique journey with Chopin and Moniuszko’s Musical Suitcase – an interactive program for primary school students in grades 1-5, where music meets theater and fun. The program utilizes two symbolic suitcases, containing fragments of scores, songs, national dances, opera scenes, and piano miniatures. Through these suitcases, children will explore the works of Fryderyk Chopin and Stanisław Moniuszko, discovering the differences in their styles, temperaments, and artistic inspirations. Participants aren’t passive listeners – they sing, clap rhythms, solve musical riddles and learn excerpts from the opera Halka. This is a dynamic, humorous story about how music can tell stories and evoke emotions even more than 150 years after the work’s composition. The programs are scheduled for March 17, 18, and 20 on the Chamber Stage of the OiFP.

The Three Worlds program will also return in March, during which musicians from the Podlasie Opera and Philharmonic Orchestra will take young children on a journey through the worlds of classical music, pop music, and percussion instruments. Participants will discover whether it’s possible to create a musical landscape without traditional percussion instruments and the richness of rhythm. Children will learn about a variety of instruments—from drums and snare drums to flexatones and bongos—and through sounds and imagination, they will be transported to different continents. School programs for students in grades 1-4 of primary school will take place on March 24, 25, and 27, while family programs will take place on March 28 and 29.

–We consistently strive to expand our educational offerings, because we believe that exposure to art from an early age builds sensitivity, openness, and curiosity about the world, and increases the number of future music lovers. Our programs are met with great interest from students and teachers and this is very gratifying. This is also a signal to us that the Opera is needed and close to young audiences – emphasizes Professor Violetta Bielecka, Director of the Podlasie Opera and Philharmonic. –We want children to leave here with a twinkle in their eyes and the feeling that music is something they can create and experience. Artistic education isn’t just an addition to the program—it’s an investment in the future. And when we see full houses and engaged participants, we feel immense satisfaction and motivation to continue working – she adds.

In March, the Podlasie Opera and Philharmonic also invites adult audiences to another intimate meeting called OPE(N)RHYMES – Meetings with Poetry and Opera. This new educational initiative, which first took place in December and was very well received by the audience. OPE(N)RHYMES demonstrates how words in an aria become music and music becomes a story. The program includes arias performed live and anecdotes about the creation of operatic emotion—from poetic text, through phrasing, to the soloist’s interpretation. This is a great opportunity for both long-time music lovers and those just beginning their operatic journey. The next event, titled A European Map of Opera Emotions, will explore how different traditions and cultures express love, longing, and inner strength. Join us on March 22nd at 6:00 PM.