Stanisław Serwaczyński`s (1781–1859) Three Pieces for Violin and Piano in a Historic, Artistic and Pedagogic Context

Abstract

Stanislaw Serwaczynski is known in Polish musical culture as Henryk Wieniawski’s teacher. Basing upon three title compositions the author shows the violinist from a different angle, as a prominent individuality of his time, man being part of the cultural elite of the rising nation. The violinist’s personality was shaped by education and upbringing of the Enlightenment, in which the major role played Masonic ideals of his father, Michal. Throughout his life, Serwaczyński testified that he was moved by these ideals and worked for national culture as virtuoso, chamber musician and composer. His works indicates an interest in folk music, which was very characteristic of the national school of composing. This interest was initiated in 18 th century by Holland and Stefani. Three pieces make important works of instrumental literature and valuable pedagogical compositions. They are also a kind of bridge to romantic violin miniatures composed by his Lublin student.