Mateusz Kowalski: A Leading Classical Guitar Virtuoso
Mateusz Kowalski, born in 1995 in Koszalin, Poland, is celebrated as one of the top classical guitarists of his generation. Known for his “spectacular” performances, as praised by Classical Guitar Magazine, Kowalski’s versatility spans a vast guitar repertoire, ranging from Renaissance music to contemporary compositions. His playing is distinguished by technical mastery, stylistic sensitivity, and profound musical understanding, making him a sought-after artist in the classical music world.
Performances in World-Renowned Venues
Kowalski has performed in some of the most prestigious venues worldwide, such as the Musikverein in Vienna and the Shanghai Grand Theatre. He has captivated audiences across more than 20 countries, including New York, Los Angeles, Paris, Budapest, and London. A highlight of his career was his 2019 performance of the Concierto de Aranjuez with the Warsaw Philharmonic, solidifying his status as a leading figure in classical guitar.
Award-Winning Guitarist
As a competitor, Mateusz Kowalski has won multiple awards in international guitar competitions, including first place at the 2nd EuroStrings International Competition in London (2019). Other accolades include victories at the International Guitar Festival RUST in Austria and the Joaquin Rodrigo International Guitar Competition in Poland. These achievements have earned him a prominent place among classical guitarists.
Discography: Showcasing Classical and Romantic Repertoire
Kowalski’s recordings have further established his reputation in the classical music scene. His debut CD, released by CD Accord in 2018, features compositions by Bach, Giuliani, Tarrega, Barrios, Piazzolla, and more. In 2021, he released his second album, Polish Romantic Guitar, which focuses on works by lesser-known Polish composers such as Bobrowicz, Szczepanowski, Sokołowski, and Horecki. This album was praised for its contribution to the Polish classical guitar repertoire.
Education and Masterclasses
Mateusz Kowalski began his musical journey at the age of seven under Dariusz Schmidt at the Grażyna Bacewicz State School of Music in Koszalin. He graduated with honors from the Fryderyk Chopin University of Music in Warsaw, where he studied under Ryszard Bałauszko. Kowalski has honed his skills through masterclasses with Sergio Assad, Oscar Ghiglia, Alvaro Pierri, and other renowned musicians. Since 2019, he has been a lecturer at his alma mater, conducting masterclasses at festivals across Europe, Asia, and North America.
Dedication to Music Education and Quality Instruments
Beyond his solo career, Kowalski is dedicated to music education, offering masterclasses in locations such as Szeged, Rust, and Qingdao. His commitment to teaching has made him a respected figure among students and peers. He performs on guitars crafted by renowned luthiers like Carl-Hermann Schaeffer and Karl-Heinz Roemmich, using Augustine strings for an expressive and refined sound.
Conclusion
Mateusz Kowalski is a versatile and accomplished classical guitarist whose performances, recordings, and teaching continue to inspire the next generation of musicians. With a rich repertoire and a passion for both traditional and contemporary guitar music, he is a driving force in the world of classical guitar.
