Kleszcz

Instrument

Clarinet

Nationality

Polish

Age

22

RAFAL KLESZCZ

Where do you study?

I am studying at the Academy of Music in Katowice (Poland) and the Faculty of Fine Arts and Music of the University of Ostrava (Czech Republic).

Member of other orchestras or institutions: The PKF – Prague Philharmonia, The Silesian Opera in Bytom

What do you like to do when you are not playing music?

I read a lot of popular science and political press, deepen my knowledge about economy and stock exchange as well as knowledge concerning personal development. Of course, like others, I love watching TV series – I am a bit addicted to them.

At what age did you start playing your instrument?

I started quite late, at the age of 13.

What was the most exciting concert you ever performed?

It was a concert a few months ago at the Rudolfinum in Prague with the Prague Philharmonic. The repertoire included Dvořák’s Cello Concerto and Tchaikovsky’s 4th Symphony, which are close to my heart.

What was the most awkward moment in your career?

There was one time during the concert of the school symphony orchestra, where I forgot to take the sheet music from home. Due to lack of time, I couldn’t go back to get it, so I played the whole concert using photos of the parts that, by some miracle, I had on my phone.

What is your favourite piece of classical music?

I enjoy many music genres, including rock, pop and jazz. If I had to pick one favourite piece, it would be something from the works of Debussy or Shostakovich.

How did the last two Corona years influence your musical development?

During the pandemic, I tried to continue my musical development. I successfully participated in many competitions and projects that took place virtually and I improved my skills in making recordings.

Which famous person would you like to have dinner with (from the past or the present)?

Leonard Bernstein, Martin Fröst, Benny Goodman