From Poland with Music: 100 Years of Polish Composers Abroad (1918-2018)

From Poland with Music: 100 Years of Polish Composers Abroad (1918–2018) is the first comprehensive treatment of the theme of emigration among Polish composers of the 20th and 21st centuries. The book focuses on classical composers but extends to important figures from the worlds of jazz and film music. It contains a series of essays on overarching themes related to the Polish musical diaspora and an engaging collection of interviews with experts.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 11 October 2021
Publisher: Scala Arts & Heritage Publishers Ltd

From Poland with Music: 100 Years of Polish Composers Abroad (1918–2018) is a groundbreaking exploration of the theme of emigration among Polish composers of the 20th and 21st centuries. This comprehensive book delves into the lives and works of classical composers such as Ignacy Jan Paderewski, Bronisław Kaper, and Henryk Wars, as well as significant figures from the worlds of jazz and film music, including Komeda, Makowicz, Kaczmarek, and Korzeniowski.

The first part of the book consists of a series of essays that provide a comprehensive overview of the Polish musical diaspora. These essays explore various aspects of the Polish cultural heritage, its influence on Polish composers, and the impact of Polish composers on the international music scene. The second part of the book is an engaging collection of interviews with experts who offer insightful perspectives on the lives and legacies of selected composers. These interviews provide revealing insights into the artists' personalities, their creative processes, and the challenges they faced during their careers.

Ignacy Jan Paderewski, a renowned pianist and composer, played a pivotal role in the political history of Poland. He served as the prime minister and minister of foreign affairs of free Poland in 1919. Paderewski's contributions to music and politics were significant, and his legacy continues to inspire musicians and artists worldwide.

Bronisław Kaper was the first Polish composer to win an Oscar in 1954 for his composition "Lili." This achievement marked a significant milestone for Polish music and showcased the talent and creativity of Polish composers on the international stage. Kaper's composition was praised for its emotional depth and its ability to capture the essence of the human experience.

Henryk Wars, another prominent Polish composer, scored numerous projects for major film studios such as Columbia, Universal, Twentieth Century Fox, MGM, United Artists, and Paramount. His compositions were known for their emotional impact, innovative use of music, and their ability to enhance the storytelling of films. Wars' work contributed to the development of film music as an art form and had a lasting impact on the industry.

From Poland with Music: 100 Years of Polish Composers Abroad serves as a testament to the profound impact that Polish composers have had on the international music scene over the last century. This book offers a valuable insight into the lives and works of these composers, shedding light on their contributions to classical music, jazz, and film music. It also highlights the challenges and opportunities that they faced during their careers and the enduring legacy that they have left behind.

In conclusion, From Poland with Music: 100 Years of Polish Composers Abroad is a must-read for anyone interested in music, history, and culture. This book provides a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the theme of emigration among Polish composers and showcases the remarkable talent and creativity of these artists. It is a testament to the enduring influence of Polish music on the global stage and a valuable resource for music enthusiasts and scholars alike.

Weight: 934g
Dimension: 176 x 250 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785514074