Classical music channels Polish spirit

Thursday, Nov 17, 2011

Gulf News

Abu Dhabi Polish embassies in the GCC kicked off celebrations to mark Poland’s 93rd Independence Day, with a classical and folk music tour in the region.

The celebration also marks Poland’s first presidency of the European Union Council.

“I am proud to be here on this momentus occasion, and to share a piece of my heritage and culture,” Professor Adam Krymowski, Ambassador of Poland to the UAE, told Gulf News.

Artists playing traditional Polish music performed at a gala concert at the Abu Dhabi Heritage Theatre.

Musical segments from famous Polish composers like Chopin and Scharwenka entertained an audience of about 250 people.

Alicja Wegorzewsk delivered a light-hearted and entertaining presentation of one of art’s most durable forms — opera.

For nearly an hour, her full mezzo voice with a rich range of disposition and her innovative theatrical style of mixing anecdotes, changing characters, coupled with long segments of serious singing kept the audience entertained and wondering what would come next.

Humorous soliloquy

“I know some of you have done everything possible to have nothing to do with Opera; some of you even succeeded. Congratulations,” Wegorzewsk said as she joked with the audience.

The act ‘Diva’s Secrets’ was a humorous soliloquy delivered in simple and complex concept opera form.

Bogdan Kierejsza, a pupil of the great violin virtuoso Konstantly Andrzej Kulka, delivered a series of pieces from great artists such as Debussy (Petite Suite), Mozart (Sonata D-dur KV381), and was joined by pianist Tamara Granat during his segment.

The duo effortlessly delivered excellent renditions of Chopin’s musical (Roberto le Diable) and Scharwenka (Polonaise op. 21).

By Iman Sherif ?Staff Reporter