Promoting Poland's Distinctive Musical Heritage

There is no better way to honor the legendary Polish composer and violinist Henry Wieniawski (1835-1880) than to encourage a new generation of young and talented musicians from around the world to discover and champion his music.

Following the successful Marcella Sembrich Voice Competition held in 2018 and Chopin Piano Competition organized in 2019, the highlight of 2020 cultural projects was the KF Wieniawski Violin Competition held via Zoom technology and live-streamed over the KF YouTube channel.

The Competition First Prize ($5,000) went to a Rice University student Clara Saitkoulov from France. Hana Mundiya, a Master of Music student at the Juilliard School, took home the Second Prize ($3,000). Kristine Clair Galano from the Philippines, at present a student at the College-Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati, received the Third Prize ($1,000). Hailed from Tokyo, Japan, a Juilliard School student Whitney Takata received a special Prize for the best interpretation of a work by Krzysztof Penderecki offered by Hanna Lachert, Competition Artistic Director and Chair of the Jury.

Watch the Competition winners speaking about their experiences of participating in the live-streamed event and learning works by Polish composers HERE.

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Kosciuszko Foundation
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Founded in 1925, the Kosciuszko Foundation promotes closer ties between Poland and the United States through educational, scientific and cultural exchanges. It awards up to $1 million annually in fellowships and grants to graduate students, scholars, scientists, professionals, and artists, and promotes Polish culture in America. The Foundation has awarded scholarships and provided a forum to Poles who have changed history.