Jan Krenz

Jan Krenz (1926-2020) was a Polish composer, conductor, and pianist. He was born in Włocławek, Poland, and studied at the Lviv Conservatory. Krenz held prominent conducting positions throughout his career, including Music Director of the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra (NOSPR) in Katowice from 1953 to 1968, General Music Director of the Bonn Opera from 1968 to 1971, and General Music Director of the Swiss Radio Orchestra in Berne from 1979 to 1982.

Krenz was particularly known for his interpretations of Romantic and 20th-century repertoire, including works by Mahler, Stravinsky, and Polish composers such as Szymanowski and Lutosławski. He also championed lesser-known works and promoted contemporary music.

In addition to his conducting career, Krenz was a prolific composer, writing orchestral works, concertos, chamber music, and film scores. His compositions often reflected a neo-romantic style with elements of Polish folk music. He received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to music, solidifying his place as a significant figure in Polish musical history.