In April and May, the Bolesławiec Cultural Centre organized successful events entitled “We play and sing for our friends.” Among others, the participants enthusiastically applauded an energetic and cheerful violinist who performed Monti’s Csárdás and Wieniawski’s Kujawiak with great flair.
Those in the know are familiar with Józef Karpowicz, but it is worth introducing this figure to everyone else. He is 75 years old, but does not look his age, nor is he ashamed of the years that have passed. Many a young person could envy him his vigour and energy, especially his artistic enthusiasm and abilities. He sings in a church choir, plays in the band of the “Bolesławiec” song and dance ensemble (he previously played in the “Jutrzenka” band), and has recently been “bolstering” the “Bolusie” street band. He has played since boyhood, inheriting his talent and love of music from his father and grandfather. He comes from the Eastern Borderlands, which surely influences his disposition, sociability and warmth. He is an excellent storyteller, seasoning his jokes with an eastern accent straight from Nowogródek. Older residents of Bolesławiec may remember Józek Karpowicz as a taxi driver, as that was also his profession. He was a soldier during the war, often giving concerts under fire across the vast area between the Bug and the Rhine. He is active in the Veterans’ Club.
He says: “My dear friends! Living by bread alone is not enough. So my advice is—sing and play, and God will grant you happiness!” That is Karpowicz through and through!