Poland in Venezuela

The renowned Polish pianist Anna Kijanowska presented a series of academic and artistic activities in Caracas aimed at strengthening cultural ties between Poland and Venezuela, promoting contemporary musical trends, and introducing the public to the Polish piano tradition. The first event was a free concert at full capacity at the Asociación Cultural Humboldt, held as part of the celebration of Poland’s National Independence Day.

Kijanowska’s repertoire included works by Józef Elsner, Maria Szymanowska, Karol Szymanowski, Ignacy Jan Paderewski, and other Polish composers, as well as contemporary pieces from the 21st century. The highlight of the evening was the world premiere of Mazurca con Tiguitigue, Op. 78, composed especially for the occasion by Polish-Venezuelan composer Gerardo Gerulewicz. The Chargé d’Affaires a.i., Daniel Gromann, delivered remarks on the historical significance of Poland’s independence and the importance of cultural cooperation between the two countries.

In collaboration with the Violeta Lárez Academy of Arts, a piano masterclass was held at the academy, with students selected through auditions and open to attendees as listeners. The session allowed young Venezuelan pianists to work directly with the Polish artist, strengthening musical and academic exchange between the two countries.

Later that same day, the final event, titled Eco-Music: New Trends in Music, took place at the Centro Cultural Chacao, organized in partnership with the Chacao Municipal Council’s Citizen Participation Commission. Kijanowska presented a personal project linking ecology and music. A participatory segment was also held to identify Venezuelan artists working in this field, and the work of Venezuelan composer José Agustín Sánchez was presented, with a video inspired by Venezuelan landscapes that was very well received by the audience.