When, where and what did you play the first time with the English Concert?

It was Handel’s Ariodante in 2017, my very first and definitely one of the most unique projects with The English Concert. It was absolutely brilliant and the proof of that is that in the orchestra we still use some sayings and jokes that were born during the tour back then!

What has been your most memorable TEC concert and why?

Again, it would be Ariodante in 2017 and more specifically our concert in Carnegie Hall. It was very special – my first project with the English Concert, first time playing this opera, first time in the US… We had a wonderful cast, which in combination with such an amazing venue produced something truly unique. And the reaction of the public was something I have never experienced before – the atmosphere was more like a rock concert, definitely much less reserved than what we’re used to in Europe!

What’s one of your favourite pieces of music and why?

While it’s changing every now and then, the piece I always come back to is Bach’s Goldberg Variations. They are so deep in so many aspects, but what I find especially fascinating is their rich recording history. The first ever, revolutionary recording of Wanda Landowska, the unique and personal interpretation of Tatiana Nikolayeva, Blandine Rannou and her effortless sprezzatura… I could keep listing all my favourite recordings, but that would take a loooong time!

Is there anything about you that would surprise people?

Oh, definitely!

• I’m one of five siblings
• Until my late studies, I studied both the violin and the organ, because I couldn’t decide which one I like more
• I love computer games
• I’m a Hellenophile, I can speak modern Greek and in my free time I enjoy learning to play the ancient Greek lyre

Biography

Jacek Kurzydlo received his first musical education in Krakow, one of the oldest cultural centres in Poland. During his studies of modern violin he became interested in Early Music through playing the organ and after attending many master classes and completing a Bachelor’s degree in baroque violin studies there, he subsequently enrolled at the Royal Conservatoire in The Hague. There, under the guidance of Kati Debretzeni, Catherine Mackintosh, Enrico Gatti and Walter Reiter, he could extend his knowledge, also by playing other instruments, mainly baroque viola and viola d’amore. He became especially interested in the latter, focusing his master research on viola d’amore and its use in the music of J.S.Bach. Jacek made himself known for bringing out unknown and forgotten repertoire, often combining it with professional editorial work. Increasingly in demand as a chamber musician, he performs with many period-instrument ensembles, often serving as a guest leader in groups such as Vox Luminis, Capriccio Stravagante, Il Gardellino and Ludovice Ensemble. He is a regular member of The English Concert, Anima Eterna, Ensemble Pygmalion, among others.