Songbook for Home Use 1

In composing songs, which Moniuszko wrote from his youth to the end of his life, he was guided by a definite idea. He wished to present Polish society with national, Polish songs, which could occupy an important place in the everyday life of the Polish people, so displacing imported trash. In a similar way Józef Ignacy Kraszewski, with an extensive and comprehensive series of novels, supplanted the French romance, so popular, especially with contemporary ladies. Having composed a considerable number of songs, Moniuszko conceived the idea of publishing them in separate books under one general title: "Songbook for Home Use".

The title of this collection is significant evidence of the composer's intention: these songs are to be used at home by every and any body in all the different circumstances of everyday life. They should suit the different moods and needs of the heart, so resulting in rich diversity. [Witold Rudziński]