Sources: Filharmonia Częstochowska im. Bronisława Hubermana, Prof. Jerzy Mizgalski, Alon Goldman
Photos: G. Skowronek (Gazeta Wyborcza), Filharmonia Częstochowska

It is with great sorrow that we have learned of the sudden passing of Ireneusz Kozera b.p., a longtime great friend of our World Society and of the Jewish community in Częstochowa. For many years, he served as the Director of the Bronisław Huberman Częstochowa Philharmonic. Prior to that, he served as Head of the Culture Department of the Częstochowa City Council.

He passed away just prior to his planned retirement.

Anyone who attended any of our World Society’s Reunions will have met Ireneusz in either of his capacities. His active contributions helped to ensure that our Reunions were as successful as they were. Ireneusz was also a true friend of the small Jewish community of Częstochowa.

He was our trusted partner in many activities aimed at preserving the city’s Jewish heritage. During his career, he was honoured with numerous awards acknowledging his commitment and activities.

In his honour, the Częstochowa Philharmonic will present the “Ireneusz Kozera Memorial Concert” on Friday 24th September 2021, at 7:00 pm. The program will feature the Baltic Neopolis Virtuosi, with concertmasters Emanuel Salvador and Adam Klocek, playing Schubert’s Quartet Movement in C Minor for String Orchestra and Schubert’s String Quintet in C Major for String Orchestra.

May Irek’s memory be a blessing to all who knew him and, in our Jewish tradition, we wish his family “long life”.