CULTURE

Singing College polishes up talents

Since 1979 the Singing College affiliated with the Musical Schools in Poznań has undeniably enjoyed unceasing popularity, especially amongst artistically gifted young people.

Every year in late August candidates from all over Poland come to Poznań for an audition. The competition is enormous as approximately 100 people apply every year for 10 places available at the college. Over two years of their studies students are offered comprehensive education and training to prepare them for their future job. They follow courses on interpretation (elements of acting), voice projection, ear training and movement. Moreover, the college curriculum includes also the history of theatre and singing.

The ability of interpreting songs is an art in itself. Therefore, a person who teaches this subject is required to have special predisposition, i.e. adequate qualifications and personality. Since 1984 Przemysław Basiński, having graduated from the directing department at the Theatrical School in Warsaw, has been imparting his knowledge in this field most effectively. He teaches how to perform a piece of music in such a way as to fully convince the listener.

However, only few manage to make a name for themselves in show business. One of the graduates of the college, Piotr Andrzejewski, has been undeniably working his way up in a most astonishing way. He proved good as an actor, rather than a singer, in the capital of the world movie industry - Hollywood. He acted in the "Texas Renger" series starring Chuck Norris. Piotr Andrzejewski was also invited to act in Janusz Michulski's movie "Killer 2".

Another graduate, Anna Mamczur participated in all performances of Janusz Józefowicz's group in Studio Buffo. She gained popularity thanks to participating in the "MdM" TV programme as well as various films and series including "Room 107". At present Anna Mamczur is a new presenter of the RTL 7 TV channel.

Justyna Szafran made a name for herself as an interesting jazz singer. She also took up theatrical singing. Her technique and repertoire is most comprehensive.

Yet another graduate of the college, Grzegorz Kopala, is one of the pillars of the "Just S" quartet.

These are just a couple of names but they constitute a showcase of the Singing College.

Tomasz Barański