Photo courtesy of the Polish Cultural Association

There are some parallels between renowned composer Frédéric Chopin and his interpreter, pianist Pawel Kowalski. Firstly, they both found the city of Warsaw to be highly stimulating in their pursuit of classical music. Secondly, they became acquainted with playing the piano from an early age, in an encounter that spiraled into a lifelong pursuit.

After arriving to NYU Abu Dhabi last Friday to tour the campus before his performance the following night, Kowalski spoke about his own expertise and how he developed as an artist.

Kowalski had an unusual start, and did not commit himself fully to the elementary stages of his musical education. When he first began studying music, he said he did not possess any major enthusiasm for the subject. That changed when he moved locations later in life.

“It was my move from Cologne to Warsaw that inspired within me the desire to become a concert pianist, which I have been now for more than two decades,” said Kowalski. “It is a privilege … to combine profession and passion.”

It is not unusual for a Polish pianist to have command over an extensive Chopin repertoire, as the 19th-century composer is very studied and celebrated in Poland. Not only do children grow up listening to Chopin, but there are also regular Chopin competitions held around every five years. These are such a national affair that everyone from your neighbor to your taxi driver will have an opinion on the eventual winner.

Kowalski’s concert on campus showcased his breadth in a variety of delights to the ear that ranged from preludes to valses and scherzos. However, when asked about his sources of inspiration, the artist also mentioned Bach, Mozart, jazz music and some contemporary pop. Especially when traveling, he said, there are constant musical influences because “music streams to you from all corners of the world.”

Part of the reason he is drawn to Chopin, however, are the distinct, captivating melodies.

“Ninety percent of what he composed are hits,” said Kowalski. “More than 80 percent of the works that were conceived by Franz Liszt and others are not known to the general public, while it is exactly the opposite with Chopin.”

His appreciation clearly came through during the live performance last Saturday, as Kowalski engaged deeply with the pieces and delivered them with the energy and conviction of a true fan of Romantic era music.

Throughout his extensive touring, Kowalski has developed a specific approach to each of his concerts. For him, it is important to captivate the audience with the beginning bars, particularly in the first minute.

“If you succeed in an attractive way, this is due to the mixture between improvisation and control,” he said. “It is music for a lifetime.”