Dr. Edyta Chlebowska is an Assistant Professor at the Cyprian Norwid Research Center, John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin. Specializing in the visual art and literary legacy of Cyprian Norwid, she explores intersections between Polish Romanticism, art history, and cultural studies. Her work extends to album art analysis and interdisciplinary connections with music (e.g., Pink Floyd, Czesław Niemen). Her research focuses on Norwid's self-portraits, eschatological themes in his drawings, and comparative studies with 19th-century Warsaw painting. She reconstructs lost artworks, documents private collections (e.g., Konstancja Górska, Victor Gomulicki), and examines Norwid's reception in Florence and Odessa. Key projects include translating Studia Norwidiana and critical editing of Norwid's complete works. As editor-in-chief of multiple On Cyprian Norwid. Studies and Essays volumes and organizer of conferences like Niemen Non Stop and Colloquia Norwidiana , she bridges academic rigor with public engagement. Her publications span peer-reviewed books, journal articles, and popular science pieces, emphasizing Norwid's unpublished works and symbolic programs.
Stanislaw Moniuszko Academy of Music in GdańskPoland
Professor Marcin Ciszewski is a distinguished faculty member at the Stanisław Moniuszko Academy of Music in Gdańsk, where he serves at the Faculty of Vocal and Acting. A graduate of the same institution with distinction in 1999, he has established himself as one of Poland's leading countertenors and vocal pedagogues. His educational background includes studies under Professor Piotr Kusiewicz and additional training with renowned instructors including Kinga Chełmińska, Ryszard Minkiewicz, Kai Wessel, Gerhard Kahry, and Dariusz Paradowski. Graduated with distinction from the Academy of Music in Gdańsk (1999) Habilitated doctor of musical arts (2019) Professor at the Faculty of Vocal and Acting Professor Ciszewski specializes in early music performance and is recognized as one of the first Polish countertenors who made significant contributions to the development of vocal art in the authenticity movement in Poland. His research focuses on the history and physiology of countertenor voices, and he regularly conducts lectures and voice training for professional and academic groups. His artistic output spans several hundred concerts across Poland and Europe, featuring collaborations with renowned ensembles, orchestras, and conductors. He has given over a dozen world premieres of both early and contemporary works, including compositions specifically written for him by modern composers. His recordings include extensive work for Polish Radio and Television, the French music television channel Mezzo, and Radio Classique. Notable Achievements Member of the European artists' association Spedidam based in Paris Nominated for the "Fryderyk" music award in the Early Music category Honored with international titles "Outstanding Teacher" and "Excellent Vocal Teacher" Since 2006, Professor Ciszewski has maintained a successful artistic partnership with organist Ewa Bąk, performing at over one hundred national and international organ festivals. Their collaborations have resulted in numerous CD, radio, and television recordings, including world premieres of works by Polish composers such as Marian Sawa and Jacek Urbaniak.
Grazyna and Kiejstut Bacewicz Academy of Music in ŁódźPoland
Piotr Scholz is an award-winning jazz guitarist, composer, and conductor currently serving as an Assistant Professor at the Academy of Music in Łódź within the Institute of Jazz Instrumental Studies . He holds three specializations in jazz and pop music from Polish institutions, including a doctorate from the Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice (2021). His academic roles include teaching jazz arrangement, composition, and conducting. Ph.D. in Composition (Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice, 2021) Jazz Guitar (Academy of Music in Poznań, 2015) Composition with Arrangement (Academy of Music in Poznań, 2016) Conducting Jazz Bands and Popular Music (Academy of Music in Bydgoszcz, 2017) Scholz’s research focuses on jazz orchestration and symmetrical scale applications , with publications exploring these domains. His artistic work demonstrates innovative approaches to jazz harmony and ensemble leadership. Recent publications analyze: Symmetrical scales in improvisation Contemporary jazz arrangement techniques Conducting methodologies for jazz orchestras Awarded numerous honors including multiple festival Grand Prix awards and international composition accolades, Scholz has received artistic scholarships from both municipal and national Polish cultural institutions. As artistic director of the Academy of Music in Łódź Jazz Orchestra, he leads original projects like Weezdob Collective and PJPOrchestra , while collaborating with prominent artists including Jean-Luc Ponty, Stanley Jordan, and Włodek Pawlik.
Grazyna and Kiejstut Bacewicz Academy of Music in ŁódźPoland
Professor Sławomir Kaczorowski, Ph.D., has been a faculty member at the Grażyna and Kiejstut Bacewicz Academy of Music in Łódź since 1981, where he teaches composition and served as Head of the Department of Composition from 2011 to 2021. He previously held significant leadership roles including Vice-Rector for Artistic and Teaching Affairs (1999-2005) and Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Composition, Music Theory, Music Education and Rhythmics (1996-1999). His educational background includes diplomas in music theory (1981) and composition under Professor Bronisław Kazimierz Przybylski (1981) from the State Higher School of Music in Łódź. Awarded the title of professor by the President of Poland in 2002, he remains an active academic leader currently serving as chairman of the Art Section of the Polish Accreditation Commission. Kaczorowski specializes in contemporary composition with emphasis on instrumental works, chamber music, and choral compositions. His research interests manifest in diverse output featuring piano, accordion, and mixed ensembles, with notable focus on tango-inspired forms and liturgical reinterpretations. He pioneered the MUSICA MODERNA sessions promoting new music through biannual concerts and lectures. Analysis of his 15 most recent compositions reveals consistent exploration of Polish contemporary classical traditions with strong emphasis on instrumental timbre, cross-genre fusion (particularly tango elements), and innovative approaches to sacred music forms. His works demonstrate technical mastery across diverse ensembles from solo piano to full orchestral settings. Silver Medal for Merit to Culture – Gloria Artis (2021) Numerous national composition competition awards Jury membership at international competitions including the T. Baird Young Composers' Competition (Warsaw 2018) and National Association of Composers USA competitions (2017-2018) Professor Kaczorowski has mentored award-winning composers including Grzegorz Duchnowski and Tomasz Szczepanik. His institutional leadership includes directing the Grażyna Bacewicz International Composition Competition (2012, 2015, 2019) and serving as president of the Łódź Branch of the Polish Composers' Union until 2022. He maintains active artistic engagement through premieres across Europe, China, and the United States. His creative work is organized through departmental initiatives including the Department of Composition's performance series and collaboration with the Artur Rubinstein Łódź Philharmonic. Current activities focus on expanding Polish contemporary music's international presence through competitions and cross-border artistic exchanges.
Stanislaw Moniuszko Academy of Music in GdańskPoland
Sylwia Janiak-Kobylińska is a Polish conductor, educator, and artistic leader currently serving as the Dean of the Faculty of Conducting, Composition, and Music Theory at the Stanisław Moniuszko Academy of Music in Gdańsk. She is President of the SAJ Foundation Supporting Young Artists, founder of the Baltic Philharmonic Orchestra of the Youth, and an active participant in international music competitions and festivals. Her work spans symphonic and opera conducting, artistic direction of multidisciplinary projects, and pedagogical leadership. Her research interests focus on Orchestral Conducting Contemporary Music Interpretation Artistic Education for Youth Symphonic and Opera Collaboration Cultural Management in Music Interdisciplinary Art Projects Her recent artistic projects, such as the inUnity. Contemporary Music from Gdańsk album and the Homage to Szymborska concert series, highlight collaborations between classical and jazz composers, youth orchestras, and interdisciplinary teams. These works emphasize themes of unity, cultural heritage, and innovation in music education. Scientific awards and recognitions include Meritorious for Polish Culture badge (2023) Antoni Wit Award at the G. Fitelberg Conducting Competition Multiple Rector’s Awards at the Academy of Music in Gdańsk Pomeranian Artistic Award in 'Artistic Hope' category As an educator, she leads orchestral workshops, mentors students across multiple faculties, and pioneered the 4C’s in Music Art program (Creativity, Collaboration, Critical Thinking, Communication). Her leadership in the SAJ Foundation and Baltic Philharmonic Orchestra of the Youth has fostered over 1000 young musicians since 2011.
Grazyna and Kiejstut Bacewicz Academy of Music in ŁódźPoland
Ewa Kowalska-Zając is a Professor of Musical Arts at the Academy of Music in Łódź, where she has been employed since 1989. She served as Dean of the Faculty of Composition, Music Theory, Conducting, Rhythmics, and Music Education from 2008 to 2016 and has been Head of the Department of Music Theory since 2018. A graduate of the Academy of Music in Łódź, her work focuses on avant-garde composition, string quartets, and the intersection of music and visual art. Education: Diploma in Music Theory and Composition from the Academy of Music in Łódź. Her research explores the evolution of Polish composers' approaches to genres like the string quartet, sacred music, and sonorism, with a particular emphasis on avant-garde experimentation and intermedia tendencies. She has authored several books, including Seeing Music. Notation of the Polish Contemporary Score (2019), and over 50 biographical entries in collective monographs. Her publications analyze themes such as musical archetypes, postmodern reinterpretations of traditional forms, and the impact of intermedia practices in 20th-century scores. Notable works include studies on Olivier Messiaen, Paweł Klecki, and Bogusław Schaeffer. Scientific Awards Silver Cross of Merit (2002) Gold Cross of Merit (2022) Kowalska-Zając is a member of the Polish Composers' Union and the Polish Music Society, contributing extensively to musicological discourse through her academic leadership and editorial work.
Stanislaw Moniuszko Academy of Music in GdańskPoland
Dr hab. Andrzej Wojciechowski is an Associate Professor at the Stanisław Moniuszko Academy of Music in Gdańsk , affiliated with the Department II – Instrumental . As a certified violinist and postdoctoral scholar, he specializes in Polish violin music, chamber ensembles, and 20th-century compositions. Graduated with distinction from the Academy of Music in Gdańsk (1998), studying under Prof. Krystyna Jurecka Collaborates with orchestras like the Polish Baltic Philharmonic and Sopot Chamber Philharmonic Co-created concert projects with artists such as Jan Stanienda and Krzysztof Penderecki His research interests span Polish musicology, violin pedagogy, and interdisciplinary artistic education. He has edited publications with "Eufonium" and promoted Polish music through recordings like Violin Works by Roman Maciejewski (2011) and The Work of Gdańsk Composers (2015). His scientific awards include: Medal of the National Education Commission (2009) Individual Award for contributions to artistic education (2012) Honorary Medal 'For Merit to Polish Culture' (2014, 2015) Rector's Award, 3rd degree (2014, 2016) Wojciechowski has taught over 50 graduates, many of whom have won music competitions, and leads the Academic Chamber Orchestra as concertmaster and conductor. His work bridges performance, education, and preservation of Polish musical heritage.
Stanislaw Moniuszko Academy of Music in GdańskPoland
Sławomir Bronk is a Professor at the Stanisław Moniuszko Academy of Music in Gdańsk, specializing in choral conducting, church music, and early music performance. He holds a doctorate from the Academy of Music in Kraków (2011) and a postdoctoral degree from Gdańsk (2019). He founded the Discantus Chamber Choir (2006), which has achieved international acclaim, and directs the Schola Cantorum ensemble at his institution. His research focuses on Kashubian folklore, Gregorian chant semiology (studied in Italy), and early music interpretation. Notable achievements include winning the Gregorian chant category at the 65th Concorso Polifonico Guido d'Arezzo and the Malta International Choir Festival (2017). He has premiered works such as Anna Rocławska-Musiałczyk's Kashubian Stabat Mater and performed in major festivals like the International Bach Festival in Świdnica. As a countertenor, he specializes in Baroque oratorios with ensembles like the Wrocław Baroque Orchestra and the Early Music Ensemble Diletto. His compositions often blend traditional Kashubian texts with contemporary choral techniques.
Ryszard Lenczewski is a distinguished Professor of Film Art at The Leon Schiller National Higher School of Film, Television and Theatre in Łódź, where he has served as a lecturer at the Cinematography Department since his graduation in 1974. He held the position of Vice-Dean from 2008 to 2014 and has been instrumental in shaping generations of Polish cinematographers. As a member of prestigious film organizations including the Society of Cinematographers (PSC), the European Film Academy (EFA), the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA), and the American Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), Lenczewski has established himself as a significant figure in international cinema. Lenczewski's research and creative interests span cinematography, film art, documentary filmmaking, visual storytelling, and camera techniques. His extensive filmography demonstrates mastery across feature films, documentaries, and television productions, with notable works including the Oscar-winning film "Ida" (2013) where he served as cinematographer. His approach combines technical precision with profound artistic expression, emphasizing visual narrative and emotional depth through innovative camera work and lighting techniques. Throughout his career, Lenczewski has supervised numerous student films, guiding emerging talent in cinematography techniques and visual storytelling. His pedagogical approach emphasizes hands-on experience and creative experimentation, reflected in the diverse range of student projects he has mentored from 2013 through 2025. 2013 Decoration Silver Medal for Merit to Culture - Gloria Artis 2015 Golden Camera 300 Lifetime Achievement Award at the Manaki Brothers Film Festival 2018 Gold Medal "Gloria Artis - For Merit to Culture" 2019 "Golden Glan" award from Charlie cinema in Łódź 2020 Society of Cinematographers (PSC) Lifetime Achievement Award 2022 Polish Filmmakers Association Award 2024 Silver Cross of Merit Lenczewski's creative output reveals a consistent exploration of visual narrative techniques, with recent student projects focusing on experimental cinematography, sensory film experiences, and innovative approaches to time, space, and emotion in visual storytelling. His work demonstrates mastery across documentary, feature film, and educational contexts, establishing him as a versatile and influential figure in contemporary cinematography.
Stanislaw Moniuszko Academy of Music in GdańskPoland
Elżbieta Frołowicz is a Professor at the Academy of Music in Gdańsk , affiliated with the Faculty of Composition and Music Theory and serving as Head of the Department of Music Theory since 2020. Her academic career spans decades, with expertise in music pedagogy and Polish contemporary music, particularly works from Gdańsk Pomerania composers. Education: Graduate of the Faculty of Composition and Music Theory at the Academy of Music in Gdańsk (diploma with distinction), postdoctoral degree in pedagogy from the University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn. Research Interests : Frołowicz focuses on music pedagogy, early school music education, and the intersection of musical activity with child development. Her methodology emphasizes interactive teaching strategies to enhance student engagement and cognitive growth through music. Publications & Trends : Her publications highlight pedagogical innovations, analysis of consonance/dissonance in early education, and the role of music in developmental psychology. She has authored over 60 scientific works and three influential books on these topics. Scientific Awards : Medal of the Commission of National Education (2007) Medal for Long Service (2021) Multiple awards from the Rectors of Academy of Music in Gdańsk (1998, 2017, 2018, 2020) and Higher School of Security in Poznań (2010, 2014, 2016) Advising & Grants : She has supervised one doctoral degree and over 20 master's/bachelor's students. Her work has been supported by institutional grants and collaborations with art education centers like the Center for Artistic Education in Warsaw and Teacher Education Center in Gdańsk.
Grazyna and Kiejstut Bacewicz Academy of Music in ŁódźPoland
Anna Wójcikowska is an Assistant Professor at the Lodz University of Music , specializing in 20th-century musical avant-garde and experimental music. She is also a practicing member of the Artur Rubinstein Łódź Philharmonic Choir and the 'Vivid Singers' chamber choir. Education M.A. in Music Theory (with distinction), Academy of Music in Łódź (2016) Ph.D. in Musicology (with distinction), Academy of Music in Łódź (2023) Her research focuses on avant-garde influences in contemporary composition, performance perspectives in modernist music, and interdisciplinary approaches to musical education. She has presented at international conferences like the 15th International Congress on Musical Signification in Barcelona and published in journals including Interdisciplinary Studies in Musicology and Contexts of Musical Education . Scientific Awards MARSHAL OF THE ŁÓDŹ VOIVODESHIP AWARD Nominated for 'Primus in artibus' award Wójcikowska actively promotes music through journalism (contributing to Ruch Muzyczny , Glissando , and Meakultura ) and public speaking, including collaborations with the Łódź Philharmonic's 'Colors of Poland' Traveling Festival.
Barbara Pazur is a Professor at the Department of Choral Studies and Vocal Education, Faculty of Arts, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University. She specializes in Edwin E. Gordon's Music Learning Theory, focusing on audiation, choral improvisation, and early childhood music education. She leads the "Teoria uczenia się muzyki E.E. Gordona" scientific circle and serves as treasurer of the Lublin Division of Polish Choral Conductors' Association. Completed music education at Wrocław Music Academy (1985) Postgraduate studies in Vocal Emission and Choral Conducting Habilitated in Music Arts (Choral Conducting) at Fryderyk Chopin University (2014) Her research focuses on musical creativity development through Gordon's methodology, autism-friendly music approaches, and Polish folk/popular song adaptation for choral education. She pioneered the "Lubelski Festiwal Chórów Parafialnych" and co-developed national choral programs. Key awards include the Srebrny Krzyż Zasługi (2018), multiple Rector's Awards, and the Pro Maris Medal (2016). She has published numerous books and articles on Gordon-based pedagogy and choral arrangements.
Stanislaw Moniuszko Academy of Music in GdańskPoland
Professor Beata Wróblewska is a distinguished conductor, composer, and pedagogue at the Stanisław Moniuszko Academy of Music in Gdańsk, where she serves as Professor in the Faculty of Choral Conducting, Church Music, Artistic Education, Rhythmics and Jazz. Appointed professor in 2019, she has been employed since 2013 and currently holds the position of Deputy Director of the Institute of Choral and Oratorio-Cantata Conducting and Head of the Composition, Arrangement, and Music Education Studio since 2016. Her academic journey includes studies in Music Education and Choral Conducting (1989), Music Theory (1994), and Composition (1995) at the Academy, followed by Doctor of Musical Arts from the Ignacy Jan Paderewski Academy of Music in Poznań (2001) and a postdoctoral degree in conducting (2013). Professor Wróblewska's research focuses on Polish and world a cappella choral music and vocal-instrumental music, with particular emphasis on cross-cultural collaborations. Her creative work demonstrates a unique synthesis of Polish choral traditions with international influences, especially evident in her compositions that incorporate Chinese musical elements and UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage. She actively participates in doctoral and habilitation committees and serves on juries for national and international music competitions. Her recent compositions reveal a strong trend toward international collaboration, particularly between Polish and Chinese musical traditions. Works like 'Mu Guiying Takes Command of Troops' (2019) and the 'Damit sie alle eins sind/May all be one' project demonstrate her commitment to using music as a vehicle for cultural exchange and peace promotion. Her compositions often integrate traditional instruments from different cultures and draw inspiration from UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage List. Gold Badge of Honor from the Polish Association of Choirs and Orchestras (2014) Diploma of Recognition from Puebla, Mexico (2019) Gold Medal for Long Service (2021) Scholarship from Sopot City Council for promoting Polish choral music in Israel (2022) Multiple Rector's Awards from both Pomeranian University in Słupsk and Academy of Music in Gdańsk Professor Wróblewska maintains an active conducting career with the Festival Choir of the Sopot Academy of Applied Sciences, Mundus Cantat, with which she has won numerous international awards. She also serves on doctoral committees and as a jury member for music competitions worldwide, contributing significantly to the development of emerging musical talent. Her international collaborations span performances in Italy, Vatican, Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Austria, Sweden, Spain, Romania, Northern Ireland, Greece, Lithuania, Mexico, Israel, Canada, and China.
Grazyna and Kiejstut Bacewicz Academy of Music in ŁódźPoland
Prof. Dr. Hab. Zbigniew Ignaczewski serves as a Titular Professor at the Grażyna and Kiejstut Bacewicz Academy of Music in Łódź, where he has taught accordion since 2002 following his distinguished graduation from the institution in 1988. He concurrently holds a teaching position at the Stanisław Moniuszko Complex of Music Schools in Łódź since 1992 and maintains active international collaborations across Europe. Graduated with distinction from Academy of Music in Łódź (1988) Awarded title of Professor of Musical Arts in 2014 Regularly participates in international music courses across Croatia, Italy, Lithuania, Germany, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland His artistic research focuses on contemporary accordion repertoire through premieres of works by Polish and German composers, innovative electronic recordings , and interdisciplinary film/theatre music composition . Ignaczewski's pedagogical methodology emphasizes competitive excellence, evidenced by his students' consistent international competition victories across 15+ countries in both solo and chamber music categories. His performance scholarship bridges traditional accordion techniques with modern electronic music production and cross-cultural artistic exchange. Notable recognitions include Poland's highest cultural honors: Gold and Silver Crosses of Merit alongside Silver and Bronze Gloria Artis Medals. His film score for 'Jakub' (1999) received the Jury Prize for Best Music at Filmfest Ludwigsburg. Additional distinctions span ministerial awards, institutional honors from his alma mater, and specialized recognitions from international competitions for pedagogical excellence. Over 15 international competition awards as jury member Students received scholarships from Minister of Culture and Łódź Voivodeship Extensive recording portfolio including Polish Radio/Television and commercial CDs Ignaczewski maintains active performance schedules across Europe while advancing accordion pedagogy through curriculum development and masterclasses that integrate contemporary composition with traditional techniques. His current work emphasizes cross-border artistic collaborations and expanding the accordion's repertoire through electronic music integration.
Dr hab. Małgorzata Gamrat is an Associate Professor at the Department of Religious Monody and Polyphony Research , Institute of Art Sciences , Faculty of Humanities , John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin (KUL), Poland. She is an internationally recognised scholar specialising in the interrelations between music and literature, with particular emphasis on the works of Franz Liszt, Hector Berlioz and Honoré de Balzac. Her habilitation (2017, University of Warsaw) and joint Ph.D. (2012, Jagiellonian University & École Pratique des Hautes Études, Paris) underpin a prolific research portfolio that spans Romantic music history, semiotics of music, and interdisciplinary studies. Education & Affiliations Ph.D. co-tutelle, Jagiellonian University & École Pratique des Hautes Études, Paris (2012) Habilitation, University of Warsaw (2017) M.A., Université Toulouse II Le Mirail (2007) M.A., Academy of Music in Bydgoszcz (2008) Research Focus Dr Gamrat’s work is situated at the intersection of musicology , literary studies and semiotics . She explores how nineteenth-century composers engaged with contemporary poetry and how literary figures reflected on music, creating a rich intermedial dialogue . Key topics include: Piano and vocal music of Franz Liszt, including genre hybridization and transcriptions Hector Berlioz’s dramatic symphonies and their literary subtexts Honoré de Balzac’s musical aesthetics and collaborative networks Polish composers in the interwar Parisian milieu (e.g., Tansman, Paderewski) Methodologies of musical semiotics and intertextual analysis Recent Publication Trends Since 2020, her articles have increasingly integrated semiotic theory with close analytical readings , addressing questions of meaning , intertextuality and translation between artistic media. Contributions appear in leading journals such as Annee Balzacienne , Czas Kultury , Nottingham French Studies and World Futures , reflecting a trajectory from archival/documentary work toward philosophical and methodological reflection. Scientific Awards & Honours Elected Fellow, International Communicology Institute, Washington, DC (2023) University Laurel “Father Idzi Radziszewski Award” – 1st Degree, KUL (2024) University of Warsaw “Clio” III Degree Award (2017) Prize of the Polish Composers’ Union for the monograph on Liszt’s piano music (2015) Research Grants & Leadership Principal Investigator, NCN FUGA: “Franz Liszt's Songs for Voice and Piano...” (2013–2016) Co-investigator, NCN OPUS: “Presence of Polish Music in Interwar Paris” (2017–2020) Vice-coordinator, Czech-Polish Forum Grant: “Joseph von Eichendorff...” (2018) Member, Scientific Committee, 16th World Congress of Semiotics, Warsaw (2023) Editorial & Scholarly Service Dr Gamrat sits on the editorial boards of Musicology Papers and Roczniki Humanistyczne , and is a peer reviewer for Muzyka , Teoria Muzyki , Studia Chopinowskie , Res Facta Nova , among others. She co-organised the international conferences “40 Years of Musical Semiotics” (2023) and “Zola’s Legacies” (2021).
