Krzysztof Urbaniak appointed Professor of Historical Organ

Starting October 1st, Krzysztof Urbaniak will join the University of the Arts (HfK) Bremen as the new Professor of Historical Organ. This endowed professorship, generously funded by the Karin and Uwe Hollweg Foundation, not only supports the students at the University of the Arts but also enriches the cultural fabric of Bremen. Urbaniak's expertise can be experienced live on August 23rd, when he performs at the Musikfest Bremen.

"We are proud and happy that Krzysztof Urbaniak will be joining our university. His appointment marks a significant milestone in the development of our organ department with our Arp Schnitger Master for Historical Church Music, the organ landscape and the broader musical culture in our region," said Prof. Dr. Mirjam Boggasch, Rector of the University of the Arts Bremen. "We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Karin and Uwe Hollweg Foundation for making this possible."

Born in 1984, Krzysztof Urbaniak studied organ and harpsichord in Warsaw and Stuttgart, earning his doctorate at the Academy of Music in Krakow. A recipient of numerous scholarships and awards at international organ competitions, Urbaniak has performed across Europe and Asia. His acclaimed CD recordings, such as "Danziger Barock" (2014), "Retrospection" (2015), and "The Renaissance Organ of Olkusz" (2019), have received high praise from critics.

Urbaniak has held professorships at the State Academy of Music in Łódź and taught at the Academy of Music in Krakow, as well as in masterclasses around the globe. He serves as a jury member for organ competitions and is internationally recognized as an expert on historical organs. Now, he looks forward to bringing his passion and expertise to Bremen.

"The concept of a 'historical organ' encompasses both tangible and intangible cultural heritage," Urbaniak explained. "One of the core objectives of organ education is not just to deepen historical understanding but also to inspire a love for the instrument's potential and to impart the skills needed to bring its sounds to life. Bremen’s historic organ landscape, to which I feel closely connected through the Arp Schnitger Competition, offers a unique setting to achieve this," said Urbaniak.

Further information can be found in this press release.