Magdalena Adamek (Richmond, VA) - Tadeusz Kosciuszko – a Cosmopolitan and an Artist: Case of Two Polonaises and the Waltz
Tadeusz Kosciuszko, as accomplished engineer, architect, strategist, soldier, the commander-in-chief of Polish-Lithuanian forces during a valiant uprising in Poland against Russia and Prussia and a hero during American Revolutionary War, he was admired by many influential figures and has made his mark in the history of mankind as an advocate for human rights, particularly of the oppressed groups including peasants in Poland, and African-born slaves in US. Certain aspects of Kosciuszko’s creative life, for example, his interest in arts have only recently come to light. The case of three keyboard pieces attributed to Kosciuszko - two polonaises and a waltz, is particularly interesting. This part of his creative output allows us to look at Kosciuszko from a completely different perspective. This article sheds light on Tadeusz Kosciuszko as a cosmopolitan figure, a patriot, and a likely composer of three keyboard works in the style of a polonaise and a waltz. The first part of this article highlights biographical facts about Kosciuszko. The author emphasizes an important role of the eclectic and structured education in Kosciuszko’s life, a process that led to Kosciuszko becoming a true civil rights advocate. The second part of the article discusses Kosciuszko’s interest in arts. Aside of his cosmopolitan nature, charisma and military career, Kosciuszko possessed musical talent. The article provides a detailed analysis of each of his three keyboard miniatures. The author concludes that these miniatures are musical trifles, little souvenirs consisting of three short sections, with middle section always featuring a Trio. The two polonaises should be popularized and performed regularly.