‘As an artist, Piotr respects and applies the rules of art, seeking the beauty and the good. We can find the aestethic values in the belcanto fluency of phrases, aided with a fine and natural timbre of voice. We also spot the ethos of moral values in the respectful attitude towards his profession – marked by humility, perseverance and an unusual consequence in pursuing artistic perfection.’ This is an excerpt of an eulogy pronounced yesterday (on the 17th of May) by Prof. Jan Ballarin at the ceremony of awarding the title of honoris causa of the Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice to Piotr Beczała.

The most famous Polish singer, currently considered the best lyric tenor in the world, 30 years ago graduated from the academy mentioned above. Piotr Beczała divides his time between the most important opera stages of the world, including Metropolitan Opera, Covent Garden and La Scala. He makes numerous records and receives prestigious awards and international distinctions.

With fondness and satisfaction we think back to the concert of Piotr Beczała in the Poznan Phil-harmonic on the 14th of April 2007. It was his first gala evening in Poland and in Europe. Ravishing and memorable! Poznan Philharmonic Orchestra was then led by Łukasz Borowicz. Since that moment both artists regularly cooperate on concert and opera stages, as well as record studios all over the world.

Maestro, dear Doctor, congratulations on receiving this honorable title!