Zhang Yiling, Chen Xiaochun

654789759@qq.com

AN exclusive piano concert organized by the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in Guangzhou was held at Shenzhen Bay Club to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Poland’s independence Saturday night.

Joanna Skoczek, consul general of the Republic of Poland in Guangzhou, introduced the history of Poland’s independence and the great contributions of the Polish pianist, composer and politician Ignacy Jan Paderewski, to the audience.

“Poland may not have existed as a political entity for over a century, but Polish people have lived, worked and created art. They were actively advocating the Polish cause abroad, not allowing the people all around the world to forget about it.

“One of the most prominent Polish artists of that time was Ignacy Jan Paderewski, a pianist and composer who was not only a musician, but also an aware and fervent patriot. For many years, he used his recognition and fame in Europe and the United States to promote the Polish pursuit of independence,” said Skoczek.

Paderewski was said to be the best pianist among the politicians, and the best politician among the pianists, of his time. He served the Polish cause at his height, leading the Polish delegation to the conference at Versailles, which decided the shape of modern Europe. After fulfilling this task and his mission, he returned to music, and continued his very successful career for the next 20 years.

Katarzyna Borek, a prominent pianist of the young generation in Poland, performed some pieces by Paderewski and Chopin, including Legende No. 1 in A-flat major from “Miscellanea” Op. 16, Menuet in G-major from “Humoresques de Concert” Op. 14, Variations in E flat minor Op. 23, and Andante Spianato and Grande Polonaise Brillante Op. 22.

In November 1918, after 123 years of foreign occupation and partition as a result of the First World War, Poland regained its independence. This year marks the 100th anniversary of Poland’s independence.