Stanislaw Lem gained fame abroad for his science-fiction stories. Music is a significant part of Polish culture. Poland's greatest composer was Frederic Chopin, whose work reflects the Polish national spirit. Also in the 19th century were Stanislaw Moniuszko, who composed the first national opera, 'Halka', in 1847, and the violinist-composer Henryk Wieniawski. There are a number of symphony orchestras and chamber music groups.
Folk music is very much alive in Poland.
It is often played to accompany traditional dances such as the mazur, krakowiak, and kujawiak. Folk songs are sung by soloists or by choirs, of which there are many in Poland. Dancers and singers wear costumes from various districts. The greatest Polish painter is Jan Matejko. He painted large pictures of scenes from Poland's past.