On November 22, 2024, the 21st edition of the “Day of Music Education” took place at the Mieczysław Karłowicz Music Schools Complex in Cracow. The school hosted over 220 participants for the congress, which has become a flagship event of the Polish Music Publishing House and an integral part of the Polish artistic education calendar. Attendees from all over Poland participated in lectures and methodological workshops, observing the work of experienced artist-pedagogues alongside 27 young music students.
For this year’s edition, the Polish Music Publishing House invited six distinguished instrumentalists, who are also respected pedagogues, to take part in various activities aimed at enhancing the professional qualifications of educators. The workshops, combined with demonstration lessons, allowed participants to explore innovative teaching methods used with students at different stages of their education. Violinist Agata Szymczewska shared her knowledge and experience with the youngest students and winners of the 3rd Antoni Cofalik Violin and Viola Competition. Pianist, educator, and composer Marta Mołodyńska-Wheeler presented marvelous piano publications, discussing technical challenges and interpretative approaches, with children performing both solo and in duets. Katarzyna Marczak demonstrated how to apply music theory knowledge in the clarinet performance practice. Accordionist Michał Mazgaj introduced the historical and aesthetic context of the 20th-century composer Andrzej Krzanowski. Cellist Radosław Bukała focused on the technical aspects of cello playing with young students, using his own collection “Brzmiące nutki” (Resounding Notes). Guitarist Michał Nagy presented an introduction to sight-reading.
Day of Music Education offers also development in areas related to music. The opening lecture on voice emission, presented by Marcin Wawruk attracted a lot of attention. As an expert in choral music, he shared valuable advice on conscious voice use for teachers. Psychologist and educator Joanna Łukasik’s lecture focused on ways to support students in managing performance anxiety and difficult emotions during instrument learning and public performances. The final lecture of the day, by physiotherapist Michał Preinl, founder of the “FizjoMuz” clinic, offered insights into common causes of pain among musicians, particularly those resulting from improper posture during playing. The presenter’s experience as both a physiotherapist and percussionist provided a comprehensive view on the topic, helping participants understand methods for preventing professional overstrain.
The 21st Day of Music Eduation was also a fantastic opportunity to explore new pedagogical publications available from the Polish Music Publishing House. These publications address current needs in children's music literature for various instruments and chamber music ensembles, some of which were showcased during the workshops.
The event provides a unique opportunity for teachers from various specialties, working with students at all educational levels, to meet. Once again, the event facilitated the exchange of experiences and inspirations, offering educators valuable tools for teaching young students. It remains an ideal space for discussion and building inter-school connections. The congress once again gathered hundreds of music educators eager to support their students in their musical journeys more effectively.
Photo: Delikatesy Filmowe © PWM
Media patronage: Polish Music Information Centre POLMIC
Paulina Szurgacz
