Paderewski

Collier's New Encyclopedia (1921)

IGNACE JAN, Rus- Russian pianist; born in Podolia, Rus sian Poland, Nov. 6, 1860. At seven his father placed him under the care of a teacher, Pierre Sowinski. In 1872 he IGNACE JAN PADEREWSKI went to Warsaw, where his knowledge of harmony and counterpoint was acquired from Roguski, and later from Frederick Kiel, of Berlin. At 18 he was nominated Professor of Music to the Warsaw Conservatory. In 1884 he held Vol. VII-Cyc profes- a professorship at the Conservatory of of Music in Strassburg, but he resolved to a pianistic virtuoso. He reand moved to Vienna, placed himself under contributor Leschetizky, and made his début before English the Viennese public in 1887, and was at English once proclaimed to be one of the most remarkable pianists of the day. He paid several visits to the principal towns Westphalia, throughout Germany, always with in- Hanover. creasing success, and in 1889 made his R. C.), first appearance before a Parisian authe dience. He visited the United States the four times. He composed more than 80 Notable vocal works, a concerto in A minor for Chapel piano and orchestra, an opera " Manfred," a suite for orchestra in G, and many pieces for the piano. His "Polish Fantasie" was produced at the Norwich Festival in 1893. In 1900 he established the Paderewski Fund in the United States for the encouragement of American composers. In the first competition (1902) three prizes of $500 were awarded to Henry Hadley, Horatio Parker and Arthur a Bird. Only O one award, to Arthur Shepmade in 1906. Paderewski herd, was married Madame Gorski in 1899. Durwas busy ing the World War he pressing the claims of Poland as a nation and raising money for his suffering countrymen. He was appointed Premier of the Polish Republic 1919, and resigned in 1920.