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Joanna Sokołowska-Gwizdka (Austin, Teksas)
Endless Standing Ovations – This was the reaction of the audience gathered at the University of Texas Recital Hall in Austin to the masterful performances of Chopin, Scarlatti, and Bartók by Marek Drewnowski. „It was a feast for the soul,” people said after the concert. „A wonderful cultural event – may there be more like this!”
Before the concert, the audience had the opportunity to watch a short film directed by Krzysztof Zanussi, Chopin’s Concerto, which transported them to the era of the great composer. Chopin’s Piano Concerto in E minor, presented with rich visual elements, resonated throughout the Royal Łazienki Park in Warsaw. The staged scenes and period costumes recreated the authentic 19th-century atmosphere, with Marek Drewnowski himself playing the role of Fryderyk Chopin. After the film, the piano virtuoso appeared on stage in Austin.
The first part of the concert featured sonatas by Domenico Scarlatti as well as Chopin’s mazurkas and waltzes. Scarlatti’s inclusion in the program was symbolic – it was Drewnowski’s performance of Scarlatti’s sonatas, broadcast on American radio, that began his acquaintance with Leonard Bernstein, ultimately leading to a performance of Brahms’ concerto with the Boston Symphony Orchestra in Tanglewood and opening the doors of the world’s greatest concert halls to the young pianist.
The second part of the concert included Chopin’s songs interpreted by Franz Liszt and a bravura performance of Béla Bartók’s 1926 sonata. In this challenging, modern composition, Drewnowski showcased his extraordinary artistry, masterful technique, and unique interpretation. The pianist’s energy and vitality spread to the audience, who stood up and applauded after each section.
We can also say: Bravo, Maestro! We are thrilled to have had the rare and exceptional experience of hearing a pianist of such caliber live.
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See also:
The concert was organized by the Austin Polish Society, the organizer of the Austin Polish Film Festival, which will take place from November 7-10, 2024.
https://www.austinpolishfilm.com/
