Szymon Godziemba-Trytek

Szymon Godziemba-Trytek serves as Assistant Professor and Dean (2020-2024) of the Department of Composition, Music Theory, and Sound Engineering at the Feliks Nowowiejski Academy of Music in Bydgoszcz, where he has lectured since 2013 while teaching choral composition and 20th-21st century music in postgraduate programs.

Education:

• Doctor of Musical Arts in Composition (2019), Fryderyk Chopin University of Music in Warsaw (supervisor: Prof. Dr. Hab. Marian Borkowski)
• Second-cycle studies in Composition & Music Theory (2013, with distinction), Feliks Nowowiejski Academy of Music
• ERASMUS scholarship (2009/2010) at Istituto Superiore di Studi Musicali 'Achille Peri', Reggio nell'Emilia
• Postgraduate Studies in Choir Conducting and Voice Production (with distinction)

His research focuses on contemporary composition with specialized expertise in sacred choral music, a cappella techniques, and 20th-21st century vocal traditions. He explores Polish musical heritage through modern compositional frameworks while maintaining strong connections to liturgical and concert choral practices across Europe.

Analysis of his nine major compositions (2009-2016) reveals consistent emphasis on sacred themes in mixed-choir settings, with significant contributions to Polish contemporary music. His works demonstrate technical mastery of a cappella writing while incorporating innovative textural approaches that bridge traditional liturgical forms with modern harmonic language, particularly evident in award-winning pieces like 'Beatus vir' and 'Miserere mei Deus'.

Scientific Awards:

• Multiple international first prizes (Cambridge 2016, Graz 2012)
• Third prizes at Cologne 'Musica Sacra' Competition (2014) and Stanisław Moniuszko Competition
• Karol Szymanowski Competition award (2013)
• National composition competition wins including 'Fides et Ratio' (2009)
• Ministerial recognition: Culture Ministry Award (2012), Science Ministry Scholarships (2012, 2017-2019)

He has secured significant creative funding including Ministry of Culture commissions ('Etnos', 'Magnificat', 'Elegia') and participation in the 'Muzyka Naszych Czasów' promotion program for emerging composers. His works are performed globally by ensembles such as the Polish Radio Choir and Trinity College Choir, with recordings broadcast by BBC Radio 3 and Polish Radio's Second Program.

Published by Schott Music, Carus-Verlag, and Polish Music Publishing House, his compositions feature in major festivals including Warsaw Autumn and Sacrum non Profanum, reflecting his active engagement with contemporary European musical communities across 15+ countries.