Ignacy Jan Paderewski (1860–1941) was one of the most eminent and famous pianists of his time, a staunch patriot and community activist, and an untiring advocate of Polish interests worldwide. He descended from a noble family with strong patriotic traditions and was growing up in the atmosphere of dedication to the Polish cause.

 

Shaped in schools in Warsaw in 1872-1878, and subsequently in Berlin, Strasbourg and Vienna, his musical talent allowed him to start in 1888 a dazzling artistic carrier of a piano virtuoso at the stages around the world. In 1890, having given concerts in France, the Netherlands and Germany, he took England by storm. By 1892, Paderewski had performed in more than a hundred cities of the United States and Canada. He also gave concerts to audiences in South Africa, Australia, Tasmania, New Zealand, Hawaii, Cuba and South America and made famous himself and his country. The depth of feeling of his performance was compounded by magic of tones and truly dramatic power. It was perceived as quintessentially Polish at the same time.