The BBC Music Magazine Awards, a highlight in the classical music world, has shortlisted two Polish musicians for their outstanding recordings in 2023.
Pianist Krystian Zimerman has been nominated in the Instrumental category for his CD featuring works by Polish composer Karol Szymanowski (1882-1937). Released by Deutsche Grammophon, Zimerman's album includes Szymanowski's Masques Op. 34, a selection of Mazurkas Op. 50, Preludes Op.1, and Variations on a Polish Folk Theme Op.10.
Renowned music critic John Allison, reviewing for the BBC Music Magazine, praised Zimerman as "one of the greatest pianists alive," commending his "magnificent and mesmerizing" command of color. Allison highlighted Zimerman's rendition of Szymanowski's Variations on a Polish Folk Theme, noting the pianist's simplicity in introducing the theme and his virtuosity in the fugal finale.
In the Vocal category, countertenor Jakub Józef Orliński has been nominated for his CD "Beyond," where he collaborates with the instrumentalists of Il Pomo d’Oro. The Warner Classics/Erato release features early Baroque compositions by Monteverdi, Caccini, Frescobaldi, Kapsberger, and others, including Polish composer Adam Jarzębski (1590-1649). Music critic Kate Bolton-Porciatti lauded Orliński for his performance, describing his voice as "bell-like," "warm," "focused," and as "limber as his famous break-dancing."
The BBC Music Magazine Awards, comprising nine categories, are set to culminate in an awards ceremony in April.
(mk/jh)
Source: BBC, Radio Poland