Laurier's Penderecki String Quartet, mourns Maestro Krzysztof Penderecki

April 1, 2020

The Penderecki String Quartet (PSQ), mourns the loss of Maestro Krzysztof Penderecki, after whom they were named.

The award-winning Polish composer and conductor was best known for works including Threnody to the Victims of Hiroshima, Anaklasis, and Polish Requiem. His compositions included choral pieces, operas, symphonic works and chamber music.

His namesake Quartet has been Laurier’s Faculty of Music’s Quartet-in-Residence for 28 years, and over the years the quartet has worked with Maestro Penderecki on many occasions, the last time being his 80th birthday celebration concert held at Symphony Space in NYC.

“With great sorrow and sadness, I received the news that the world lost an enormous artist, charismatic composer, conductor and incredible human being, Maestro Krzysztof Penderecki. He will always remain a symbol of his era”, said PSQ violinist, Jerzy Kaplanek.

“His music will live in my heart and continue to give me inspiration and strength, especially during these challenging times. I feel extremely privileged for the opportunities I had to be in his presence, work with, and learn from him”.

“The PSQ is deeply saddened by the loss of Maestro Penderecki. We will always be grateful for his music, humanity and mentorship. His warmth, curiosity, sense of humour and singular voice will continue to inspire us throughout our musical lives”.

Maestro Penderecki’s contribution to the music community will be not be forgotten, and will live on in the performances of many, including the PSQ.  They have recorded many of Penderecki’s works for string quartet on CD, and have made these recordings available on the PSQ website to honour his memory.