The III Paderewski Festival brings a harmonious blend of music, history, and culture to Poznań and Greater Poland from 7th to 12th November. Celebrating the legacy of Ignacy Jan Paderewski — renowned pianist, composer, and Polish statesman — this year’s festival pays homage to Paderewski’s deep connection to the region and his powerful contributions to music and Polish independence. With over 30 events spread across iconic venues in Poznań, Komorniki, Rokietnica, Kórnik and more, the festival is set to immerse audiences in a unique journey through music and Polish heritage.
Ignacy Jan Paderewski: A Virtuoso and Patriot
Born in November, Paderewski’s life and work have inspired generations. He was a remarkable figure in Poland and abroad — a virtuoso pianist whose compositions and performances captured international audiences, and a fervent patriot who used his fame to advocate for Polish independence. Beyond his music, Paderewski’s political influence was instrumental in securing support for Poland’s sovereignty after World War I, marking him as both an artistic and national hero. This dual legacy is celebrated each November, a fitting time as it includes Paderewski’s birthday and Poland’s Independence Day on 11th November.
Festival Origins and Legacy
The concept for the Paderewski Festival emerged in 2018 when the Adam Mickiewicz Institute held a global competition for a musical on Paderewski’s life. This contest in cities like New Orleans and Los Angeles rejuvenated interest in his legacy, resulting in works like Virtuoso — a musical considered Poland’s answer to Hamilton. The first Paderewski Festival followed in 2019, bringing acclaimed works such as the opera Three Paderewskis and collaborations with international artists like Sifiso Mazibuko, who played Aaron Burr in London’s Hamilton production. The Poznań festival has since evolved into a major cultural event, fusing music, theatre, and history.
A Diverse Programme Celebrating Polish and European Music
Hosted by the Bona Fide Association, the Paderewski Festival presents a rich programme devoted to Polish music, featuring both celebrated masterpieces and rare, lesser-known works. Opening on 7th November at the historic Bazar Poznański, the festival begins with a concert by the acclaimed Meccore String Quartet, setting an elegant tone for the days ahead. Throughout the festival, attendees will be treated to an array of performances by prominent Polish artists, including Maria Gabryś-Heyke, Reverie Piano Duo, Dorota Cybulska, and the Polish Violin Duo. These concerts offer an expansive view of Polish classical music’s contribution to European traditions, blending Paderewski’s own works with timeless compositions from across the continent.
A highlight of this year’s festival is the highly anticipated Chopin recital by pianist Hyuk Lee, scheduled for 10th November at the prestigious Aula UAM. This performance promises to be a memorable experience for classical music lovers, celebrating Poland’s rich musical heritage in one of Poznań’s iconic venues.
Concertgoers will also have the chance to enjoy performances by winners of national Polish music competitions, showcasing fresh talent alongside established musicians. The Paderewski Festival’s programme includes a range of events—from classical recitals and theatrical performances to poetry readings and historical lectures—appealing to a diverse audience of all ages. Notably, the festival will debut the album Complete Songs of Ignacy Jan Paderewski, recorded by soprano Marzena Michałowska and pianist Małgorzata Sajna-Mataczyńska, which spotlights Paderewski’s vocal compositions.
In partnership with the Museum of the Greater Poland Uprising, the festival offers attendees opportunities to delve into Paderewski’s legacy through guided walks tracing his footsteps around Poznań and discussions with artists, deepening the connection to his remarkable contributions to Polish music and heritage.
Full Paderewski Festival Schedule
7th November, Thursday
The festival begins with Switzerland: Journey through an Imagined Paradise, followed by an Opening Concert with the Meccore String Quartet.
8th November, Friday
Events include the VI L.O. Patron’s Day Ceremony, Paderewski and Chopin Piano Concert, and Baroque Inspirations Harpsichord Recital. Later, enjoy the Virtuoso musical, Freedom or Solidarity? discussion with Krzysztof Czyżewski, Around Chopin Piano Recital, and Paderewski Song Evening.
9th November, Saturday
The schedule features the Paderewski in Switzerland Conference, Old Town Organ Concert, Alla Polacca Guitar & Harp Duo, Following Paderewski Walking Tour, and Baroque Inspirations Recital, with evening events like the Beauty in Culture discussion and Impressions on Paderewski Piano Performance.
10th November, Sunday
Highlights include Anna Dymna’s 100th Poetry Salon, Polish Improvisations Organ Recital, Souvenirs de Pologne Piano Recital, Virtuoso musical, Impressions on Paderewski Piano Concert, and a Chopin Recital by Hyuk Lee.
11th November, Monday
Celebrate Independence Day with a Festive Mass and Procession, followed by Impressions on Paderewski Piano Concert, Polish Clarinet Music Concert, Fantasia Polonia Violin Duo, Fantasia Polonia at Rokietnickie Wierzby, Four Hands by Reverie Piano Duo, Alla Polacca Duo, and a Concert in Memory of Independence Fighters.
12th November, Tuesday
The festival concludes with a Polish-Swiss Evening with Paderewski Songs.
For a complete schedule with event locations and times, click here!
Festival Partners and Support
Supported by the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage, Poznań City Council, and various cultural institutions, the Paderewski Festival brings together partners such as the Teatr Muzyczny in Poznań, Museum of the Greater Poland Uprising, and Adam Mickiewicz University. Through their collective support, the festival creates a space to celebrate Polish music, history, and cultural connections, making it one of the region’s most anticipated cultural events. With free admission to many events, it invites everyone to join in honouring Paderewski’s enduring legacy.
