Polish Cello Quartet was formed in 2011 on the initiative of Tomasz Daroch, Wojciech Fudala, Krzysztof Karpeta and Adam Krzeszowiec – four cellists of the new generation. The four artists have decided to initiate a chamber music group to show and share the unique and original sound of the cello quartet.
The musicians of PCQ had an honour and privilege to acquire their skills from leading Polish cello musicians such as Paweł Głombik and Stanisław Firlej, and also from world-leading professors such as Frans Helmerson, Gary Hoffman, Michael Flaksman, Jelena Očić, Julius Berger and Jeroen Reuling. The musicians of PCQ have gained their experience in many European cultural centers (Cologne, Mannheim and Brussels). Each of the artists has often been awarded in solo and chamber performances. All PCQ members lead cello classes at renowned Polish Music Academies. Since 2014 Polish Cello Quartet is a ensemble in residence at the National Forum of Music in Wrocław.
Polish Cello Quartet can be seen performing at many international music festivals, including Wratislavia Cantans, Internationaal Kamermuziekfestival Schiermonnikoog, Q’arto Mondi and Jazztopad. The group has collaborated with many great and highly regarded musicians – both classical and jazz, among others: Gary Hoffman, Jadwiga Rappé, Dominik Połoński, Tony Mallaby, Nate Wooley.
The Quartet CD debut was in 2017 with and album Discoveries (CD Accord). For their second album which contains works of composer Grażyna Bacewicz (Chandos) they have received a prestigious Fryderyk Music Award (2019).
In the way they perform, the artists have chosen a democratic model of cooperation. Within the group they exchange parts of music pieces they play – which allows to alter the sound and interpretation of the pieces.
