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Ignacy Jan Paderewski was the world's most beloved pianist during the first half of the 20th century. Born in 1860 in the village of Kurylowka in eastern Poland, he studied music in Warsaw and embarked on a career as a composer and performer. Sought the world over as an interpreter of the works of Romantic composers such as Beethoven, Chopin and Liszt, his own compositions are in a Romantic style and are often influenced by Polish themes and folk music.
During World War I, he became a spokesman and fund raiser for the cause of Polish freedom. So eloquent were his speeches and so widespread was his influence that Paderewski was chosen as Poland's Prime Minister in 1919, Even after he returned to his first love - music - in 1923, he continued to be an influential statesman and philanthropist. He signed the Treaty of Versailles, addresses the League of Nations, was a friend of four American Presidents, and was the first to give a solo recital in Carnegie Hall. When he died in New York City in 1941, his funeral was attended by 40,000 people. Though his body, first interned at Arlington National Cemetery, now lies at rest in Poland, his heart remains buried here in America.
Paderewski was famous for his brilliant pianistic technique, passionate lyricism and innovative tone color. While the performances recorded here are not a match for his brilliance, it is hoped that they provide an insight into his compositional style. We hope these are received in the spirit in which they are offered - as a tribute to the man and his music. Selection 10 is the recorded voice of Paderewski from an NBC radio program emanating from New York City on the occasion of his 80th birthday, April 16, 1940. As this was during WWII, he appeals to the nation for donations for Polish war victims. It was recorded from original acetates in the Archives of the Polish Museum of America .
Selections:
1. Minuet - op. 14 no. 1
2. Love Song - op. 10 no. 2
3. Mazurek - op. 5 no. 2
4. Piper's Song - op. 18 no. 2
5. Nocturne - op. 16 no. 4
6. Falling Tears - op. 18 no. 5
7. Musical Moment - op. 16 no. 6
8. Wanderer's Song - op. 10 no.2
9. Krakowiak - op. 14 no. 6
10. Paderewski's Voice
11. White Eagle March
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Features
- Compact Disc
- English language leaflet
- 11 Selections
- Total Time 36:00
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