Search Results

Reprinted courtesy of Diplomatic Watch https://diplomaticwatch.com/wipac-founders-john-chateau-gardecki-honored-with-lifetime-achievement-arts-award/ by Victor Gotevbe October 24, 2025 Reading Time: 3 mins read Washington International Piano Arts Council (WIPAC) co-founders, John and Chateau Gardecki were honored on Wednesday with the Lifetime Achievement Arts Humanitarian Award presented by the Church of Scientology. The award recognizes the couple’s extraordinary more than two decades of contribution to the city’s cultural life, establishing Washington as a hub for non-professional classical pianists worldwide. The award citation praised the couple’s enduring influence on Washington’s artistic landscape, stating: “Our office has been honored and proud to know Chateau and John Gardecki, and to have helped support and sponsor several annual WIPAC Festival of Music and Washington International Piano Artists Competition events. Dupont Circle is noted for the arts, and WIPAC added a new dimension of classical piano music to the area. As the founders of WIPAC, their life’s work of sharing beautiful classical piano music inspired us to present them with the Lifetime Achievement Arts Humanitarian Award.” John Gardecki performing for the audience The Gardeckis founded WIPAC in 2002 after John Gardecki, a resident pianist of Middleburg, Virginia, competed successfully in two of the world’s premier amateur competitions, the Concours International des Grands Amateurs de Piano in Paris and the Van Cliburn International Piano Amateur Competition in Fort Worth, Texas. Those experiences inspired him and Chateau to offer musicians of similar backgrounds a platform in Washington that would unite artistry, community, and cultural exchange. They quickly formed an executive board of music lovers and, with the assistance of Jerome Barry, founder and director of the Embassy Series, WIPAC launched its first public concert, the Winners Grand Prix Concert, at the French Embassy on April 24 2002. The event featured leading amateur pianists from Paris, Fort Worth, and Boston and drew strong public and diplomatic interest, marking the birth of a new cultural tradition in the capital. Encouraged by their success, WIPAC was invited by Keith Peoples of the Society of the Cincinnati to revive public piano recitals at Anderson House Museum. The partnership produced seasonal concerts between 2002 and 2010, featuring acclaimed pianists such as Frederic Chiu, Eric Himy, and Janice Weber. The program later continued at the Kosciuszko Foundation American Polish Center for the Arts, further extending WIPAC’s reach within Washington’s embassy district. Today, WIPAC’s signature Festival of Music and Washington International Piano Artists Competition, hosted in cooperation with the George Washington University Music Department, draw non-professional pianists from around the world. Participants, often professionals in diverse fields such as medicine, law, and engineering, perform for the love of music, exemplifying the Gardeckis’ belief that artistic passion transcends vocation. Over more than two decades, the Gardeckis have woven piano artistry into the cultural fabric of Washington, engaging with embassies, nonprofits, and educational institutions. Their leadership has strengthened global friendships through music while giving dedicated amateurs a stage to achieve professional-level performance standards. Receiving the Lifetime Achievement Arts Humanitarian Award marks a culmination of that lifelong mission. Through WIPAC, John and Chateau Gardecki have established that music not only enlightens audiences but also builds bridges between nations, cultures, and hearts.

On a lively Friday evening, the historic Whittemore House—headquarters of the National Woman’s Democratic Club in Washington, D.C.—was transformed into a swinging jazz hall as over one hundred guests gathered for a special New Orleans Jazz Night, part of the ongoing Whittemore Concert Series. Longtime D.C. jazz legend Thad Wilson and his Septet took the stage to resounding applause, bringing classic New Orleans jazz to life with an infectious energy that swept across the room. The group’s tight, exuberant sound had everyone tapping their feet, clapping along and dancing. Joining Wilson was celebrated vocalist Steve Washington, a Broadway veteran and well-known figure in the local music scene. His commanding baritone and charismatic stage presence brought an extra layer of magic to the night’s performances.   Among the evening's standout moments was Washington’s heartfelt rendition of “I Was Telling Her About You” , first popularized by Al Hibbler and later covered by greats like Johnny Mathis, Dinah Washington, Nancy Wilson, and Marvin Gaye. His performance paid loving tribute to these vocal icons while making the song his own. Audience members were also treated to an insightful two-minute historical video, echoing the engaging tone of Henry Louis Gates Jr., exploring New Orleans Jazz as America’s first original musical form. Far from slowing the pace, this moment of reflection added depth and context to an already dynamic program. Wilson’s ensemble delivered powerful interpretations of jazz standards, including the high-energy “Take the ‘A’ Train” by Billy Strayhorn—famously inspired by Strayhorn’s first journey to meet Duke Ellington in 1939—and the deeply emotional “Blood Count,” Strayhorn’s final composition, written while he battled cancer. The performance captured the poignant beauty of the piece, drawing the audience into its soulful depths. Also was the ever-popular “Little Liza Jane,” a traditional tune with Southern roots that had the entire room moving. With Washington leading the vocals, the ensemble brought a contemporary flair to this beloved classic. The night closed with a stirring rendition of “What a Wonderful World,” with Thad Wilson channeling Louis Armstrong’s signature gravelly voice so convincingly that it felt as though Armstrong himself had joined the party. Held at the Whittemore House, a gem of the Arts and Crafts Movement and home to the Woman’s National Democratic Club since 1927, the concert honored not only jazz history but the legacy of women’s advocacy in the U.S. The house was acquired just years after the passage of the 19th Amendment, symbolizing a new chapter in American civic life. The Whittemore Concert Series continues this winter with a performance by the National Symphony Orchestra Trio on December 2nd. Mark your calendars for another unforgettable evening of music and culture. Special thanks to the generous supporters who helped make the Thad Wilson concert possible: Pamela Johnson, Suzanne Finney, Judy Hubbard, Cliftine Jones, Sasha Kay, Bonnie Heather McCabe, and several anonymous donors.

Delegates King and Maldonado Lead the Celebration of the African Diaspora Heritage Month in Virginia If you had walked through the halls of the State Capitol in Richmond on September 9th, you would have heard the heavenly voices of the Tema Choir as they prepared to sing outside on the steps of the Capitol to celebrate Virginia's African Diaspora Heritage Month.  The Observance, established in 2022, serves to honor the global African diaspora and its profound impact on the fabric of American society and culture.  The event was hosted by Delegates Candi Mundon King and Michelle Lopes Maldonado who provided an opportunity to highlight achievements, foster cultural connections between Africans and their descendants in the Americas, and recognize the ongoing contributions of this growing and diverse community.  Under the direction of Ebenezer Allotoy, the Tema Choir has blessed our community with joyful and inspiring performances for many years. It has performed with the Old Bridge Symphony Orchestra and at many venues, including Embassies, churches and senior communities, highlighting beautiful Ghanaian traditional songs as well as music from the classical repertoire.  The powerful speeches during the celebration by members of the General Assembly told the story of the ties that bind between the Americas and Africa and the historical significance of having the first African American Speaker of the House in a Capitol that was built by slaves. Following the event, the choir, dignitaries and officials were feated to a Taste from Africa by Mamasu's Restaurant. On September 16, Virginia's Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan Lead a Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing September as African Diaspora Month in the United States. “As one of the fastest growing immigrant populations across the United States, the African diaspora has brought a depth of culture and history that enriches our nation. Virginia feels those ties especially strongly, since the first Angolans arrived on the shores of Hampton, Virginia in 1619,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “As a state senator three years ago, I championed the effort that made Virginia the first state in the nation to designate September as African Diaspora Month. Now, I’m proud to carry this torch to the federal level alongside my colleagues on both sides of the aisle.” On the Senate side, Senators Kaine and Cornyn have also led the way to establish African Diaspora Heritage Month accross the country. Delegate Candi King's inspirational remarks during the African Diaspora Heritage Month. Delegate Michelle Maldonado gives the history behind the establishment of the African Diaspora Heritage Month.

The energy was infectious at the vibrant Latino Fest held in the heart of Manassas Park, where the atmosphere was filled with excitement and joy. Attendees were treated to a spectacular lineup of talented musicians who brought the sounds of Latin America to life, showcasing a variety of genres that included salsa, merengue, and reggaeton. The rhythmic beats had everyone dancing, and the lively performances captivated audiences of all ages. Alongside the musicians, skilled dancers adorned in colorful traditional attire took to the stage, performing mesmerizing routines that highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the Latino community. In addition to the captivating performances, the event featured a series of inspiring speakers, further enriching the experience for all who attended. Their words resonated deeply, emphasizing the importance of community, culture, and unity. Of course, no festival is complete without an array of delicious food, and the Latino Fest did not disappoint. Attendees indulged in a variety of culinary delights, from savory baleadas, tacos, to sweet churros, saltenas and chicharron, providing a true taste of Latino cuisine that delighted the senses. Congratulations are in order for the remarkable efforts of the "Comadres," particularly MP Councilwoman Yesy Amaya and Diana Brown Proud MCPS Board Member , who played pivotal roles in organizing this family-friendly event that not only celebrated Latino Culture but also fostered a sense of community and togetherness. Their dedication to highlighting the richness of Latino traditions is a testament to their hard work and commitment to bringing people together through the joy of culture, food, and music. Latino Advocacy Network had a table at the festival. Carmen E. Rodríguez  and Lisa McFarren-Polgar registered voters and handed out important Know Your Rights information as well as resources to many in the Latino community. The campaign for candidate for Governor, Abigail Spanberger   was well represented with Jasmin Chavez  , Carla Bustillos, Meg Stevens , Christian Ramos, and many young Democrats. Congressman Suhas Subramanyam  and Delegate Michelle Lopes Maldonado  , who represent the District, also had the opportunity to speak. The Mayor of Manassas Park, Allana Mensing and Vice-Mayor, Darryl Moore, gave the audience a warm welcome. Juan Pablo Seguro, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and of Arentinian descent, identified well with the audience.

Marking the 80th Anniversary of the dropping of the nuclear bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, MPT and PBS are broadcasting accross the nation this important documentary produced by Shizumi Shigeto Manale  and directed by Bryan Reichhardt . It's a gripping story of the resilience of children and their ability to overcome suffering with expressions of friendships towards those who inflicted such pain. Producer, Shizumi Shigeto Manale The documentary draws lessons from the colorful pictures made by Honkawa school children who had survived the bombing of Hiroshima. The children had received a half-ton of art supplies from All Souls Unitarian Church in Maryland in 1947 after the pastor of the church was horrified by US newspaper reports glorifying the bombing and felt he had to do something to extend hands of friendship to those victims. The drawings were sent back by the Hiroshima children to the church as an expression of friendship and gratitude for the gift of the art supplies. The 2010 film, “Pictures of a Hiroshima Schoolyard,” completed the circle of friendship by telling the story of the artists (who are now in their 80’s) reflecting on what inspired them to draw beautiful and joyous pictures that did not reflect the devastation of their surroundings. The producer of the film, Shizumi Manale, commented that when she saw the drawings on August 9, 2006, when she visited the church with three Hibakusha (atomic bomb survivors), “I was stunned and speechless by the miracle of the pictures themselves, but also by the story behind them. These pictures were not drawings on paper, but rather, they showed what was in the hearts of 48 children who had suffered an unspeakable experience.” “They represented the human capacity for reconciliation.” You can also watch the documentary for free using this link through February 2, 2026. Seijyu Kahou, President of the PanAsian Association https://video.mpt.tv/video/pictures-from-a-hiroshima-schoolyard-t3AM14/?fbclid=IwY2xjawMHhv5leHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHiMct5tZZYdEe9gXurcGNK2OJDMbBHdAL3TJvpk5KaTyLS4oEr5QwViXkAUS_aem_Vi8fsSHb6wTnfYZ2rDDwdw The MPT and PBS broadcasts were made possible by generous donations from, among many, the Panamerican-Panafrican Association, the PanAsian Association, under the leadership of Seijyu Kahou .

"Music and mutual understanding bring our two people together." -- H.E. Ambassador Xie Feng On Sunday, August 10, the Washington International Piano Arts Competition's 25th anniversary final event was celebrated with much fanfare at the Great Hall of the Embassy of the Peoples Republic of China in Washington, DC. The diplomatic family of China welcomed WIPAC organizers and its audience to an exhilarating concert performed by pianist Michael Slavin and the Washington Conservatory of Music Orchestra. Chosen by the Wipac jurors as the “Ultimate Pianist,” Slavin and the orchestra performed the Rachmaninoff Concerto No 1 in a culmination of WIPAC’s long history as a leading piano competition in the world. The Ambassador of China to the United States, H.E. Xie Feng, welcomed everyone with a heartfelt speech, encouraging peaceful co-existence between our two countries. “Peace is a common pursuit for people who must help in changing this turbulent world, and China and the USA share in the obligation to encourage peace, solidarity and amity, as well as equality and mutual respect.” The Ambassador added, “Music and mutual understanding bring our two people together, as the winds of politics cannot be the reason to keep our people separated.” In a seamless dialogue between pianist Slavin and the orchestra, under the baton of Conductor Jovan Zivkovic, the compelling narrative and emotional depth of Rachmaninoff’s music came to life. With great ease, Slavin interpreted the powerful and dramatic passages, from delicate lyricism to thunderous climaxes, maintaining control over the instrument throughout. Pianist Slavin and the Washington Conservatory of Music Orchestra’s exceptional musicians created a cohesive and integrated performance of one of Rachmaninoff’s most demanding works. The Concerto, written by the composer at age 17- 18 in 1891 (later revised in 1917), is a remarkable work, highlighting Rachmaninoff’s genius as a teenager. Slavin captured Rachmaninoff’s youthful exuberance, as well as his sense of innocence that permeates the work. Ambassador Xie Feng expressed a keen appreciation for WIPAC’s role in fostering the art of piano performance. In a similar way, he stated, the Chinese people’s appreciation for classical music has grown, with the flourishing of concert halls and opera houses throughout China and the creation of eighty orchestras. The Ambassador encouraged increased people-to-people exchange cooperation between China and the USA and invited Americans to visit his country. As the Ambassador reminded the audience, it was a half century ago that the Philadelphia orchestra was the first American orchestra to visit China, forging the path to the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the USA under the auspices of Deng Xiaoping, President of China, and Jimmy Carter, President of the USA. The Ambassador referenced the great violinist Fritz Kreisler who at the turn of the century, composed the Tambourin Chinois, a very popular piece in the classical music repertoire. He drew attention to Chinese pianists Lang Lang and Yuri Wang, who have taken on the world stage. The second part of the 25th Anniversary gala celebration at the Embassy featured Yiran Wang, WIPAC's 2018 Competition winner, performing the grandiose 4th Movement of the “Yellow River” Concerto. Ambassador Xie Feng commented that the work features China’s most passionate and powerful melodies, having inspired the world’s anti-fascist movement and forged a profound pledge for peace. “We must continue to develop bilateral relations, focus on mutual respect and find the right way to get along with each other." Pianist Wang's performance of the “Yellow River” piano concerto, one of the most significant compositions of the Classical Chinese repertoire, was a musically compelling display of virtuosity, evoking the images of the powerful Yellow River. The dramatic musical exchange between pianist and orchestra highlighted traditional Chinese folk music combined with Western classical forms. Following the Ambassador's remarks, WIPAC’s founder Mme. Chateau Gardecki, welcomed the audience and acknowledged WIPAC Vice Chair, Mrs. Sheila Switzer for her intercession in bringing the event at the Chinese Embassy to fruition. She also acknowledged Ambassador ‘s Xie Feng’s wife, Madame Wang Dan for her generosity as well as the Minister Counselor For Cultural and Tourism, Chen Chunmei, who also took part in the organization of this event. Carolyn Fuller, President of the Board of WIPAC, expressed her appreciation for WIPAC's quarter century promotion of music as a universal language and acknowledged the notable support from WIPAC supporters and organizers. Michela Gorham and Faye Rokni served as distinguished Co-Chairs for this 25th anniversary celebration. The Gala event took on special meaning with the delectable dinner menu comprised of a blend of beautifully decorated Chinese cuisine reflecting the various regions across China and Western flavors.

Paying tribute to the Founders of the Washington International Piano Arts Competition, pianist Michael Slavin commented, “This is not a competition but rather a celebration of the 25th anniversary of WIPAC, an occasion to say thank you to John and Chateau Gardecki for their work in opening up the world to amateur pianists who can bring immense joy to audiences.” WIPAC’s 25th anniversary celebration continued for the third day at the Katzen Arts Center at American University with great ‘elan’ as former first prize winners performed movements of piano concerti to qualify for the grand event on Sunday, August 10 at the Embassy of the Peoples Republic of China. Pianist Michael Slavin was selected to perform the entire Rachmaninoff Concerto No 1 in F Sharp minor, Op. 1 with the Washington Conservatory of Music Orchestra. Three finalists performed at the Katzen Arts Center, Vanessa Schmithorst, Michael Slavin and Irene Longacre Whiteside. It is a tribute to the human spirit to witness the great achievements of these remarkable pianists, who are not only captivating performers, but who have reached great heights in their respective professions in medicine, science and education, etc. To find one’s direction in life is a great blessing as Dr. Schmithorst, Dr. Slavin and Ms. Longacre White have so well achieved. Accompanied by pianist Frank Conlon (playing the orchestral reduction) Schmithorst performed the Brahms Concerto no 2 in B-flat Major, First Movement. It was indeed a performance that was a tour de force. The composer Arnold Schoenberg is known to have said, ”Brahms instrumental technique is anything but flashy, and demands an ability to handle wide stretches and awkward figurations. But what can be played can be played.” Indeed, Vanessa Schmithost met those challenges with great virtuosity. In anticipation of Sunday’s performance, Michael Slavin performed the First Movement of Rachmaninoff’s Concerto No. 1, which he will perform on Sunday’s event with the Washington Conservatory of Music. He was also brilliantly accompanied by Frank Conlon playing the orchestral reduction. Rachmaninoff wrote, “Melodic invention in the proper meaning of the term is the real aim of the composer. If he is incapable of inventing melodies that endure, his chances of mastering his material are very slender.” It was heartening to the audience that pianists like Michael Slavin have kept that great Rachmaninoff tradition alive. As a further tribute to WIPAC, Michael Slavin stated, “Being retired, I have decided to put the time into what I love, and that is to play music.... I’ve played in other competitions but WIPAC is the best.... I’ve played in Warsaw and Paris, but WIPAC really supports its pianists. I’m really thrilled that I met you so many year ago.” Pianist Irene Longworth Whiteside (who was not competing this year), chose the Camille Saint Sans Concerto no 2., playing with such natural ability that she made the most difficult passages appear second nature. WIPAC’s previous day’s competitors included Bill Bloomquist, Ilya Bunyakin, Simon Finlow, Kate Grimball, John Sawchuck, Michael Slavin, Vanessa Schmithorst, Viscount Thurston, and Irene Longacre Whiteside. A veritable festival of music, these pianists performed pieces of Granados, Ginastera, Chopin ,Mendelssohn, Bach-Busoni, Rachmaninoff and Schumann. Kate Grimball particularly mesmerized the audience with a Phillip Glass Eude, that produced the effect of clearing the palette from the highly melodic, romantic, rhythmical repertoire of the prior four hours. The Chair of the Juror Committee, Michael Davidson, paid special tribute to the dedicated judges, some of whom have adjudicated the competition for many years. Amongst the 5 jurors were Teodora Adzharova, Eric Himy, Frank Conlon, Larry Berman. WIPAC enthusiasts can look forward to more events tonight at 6:00 pm at the Fraser Mansion and on Sunday at 3:00 pm for the Grand Finale at the Embassy of China.

25 years of piano artistry, hands across the seas friendships and cultural diplomacy was celebrated at the National League of American Pen Women Center in Washington DC during the opening night reception of the Washington International Piano Arts Competition. The event showcased some of the pianists that will be performing at this special 25th anniversary of WIPAC, bringing together many previous 1st-prize winners of the renowned competition. This year’s WIPAC is as much a celebration of the international non-professional artists who, “for the love of music,” come to Washington DC to compete, as it is an acknowledgement of the great achievement of the Founders of WIPAC, Mme. Chateau Gardecki and her husband pianist John Gardecki, who brought this piano competition to life. As conceived by Chateau Gardecki, this year’s competition winner will have the opportunity on Sunday to perform a concerto with the Washington Conservatory of Music Orchestra. The final event will take place at the Embassy of the Republic of China under the patronage of Ambassador Xie Feng. The opening night reception featured several pianists, including Irene Longacre Whiteside, the 2021 1st prize winner of the WIPAC competition. Whiteside performed Chopin's Barcarolle in F-sharp major, Opus 60. John Gardecki, WIPAC co-founder and a highly respected pianist in his own right, praised her interpretation as one of the most beautiful rendition of the Barcarolle he had ever heard. The Barcarolle , amongst Chopin’s most loved and demanding interpretive pieces, was written 3 years before his death. Pianist Klyde Ledum performed the Chopin Polonaise “Heroique” Opus 53 and two pieces by noted composers of the Philippines to great acclaim. Pianist Vanessa Schmithorst presence was indeed memorable, as she was the 1st prize winner of the WIPAC competition in 2008. In addition to WIPAC’s esteemed Founders, the organization was represented by Ms. Carolyn Fuller, President of the Board; Mrs. Sheila Switzer, Vice President; Ms. Michela Gorham, Co-Chair of the Classic Circle Committee and Vice Chair of the same committee; Portia and Mike Davidson, both past Presidents of WIPAC; Don and Grace Sumihiro; Rhoda Septilici, Diplomatic Liaison; Zidi Berger; Susie Eisenger and Judith Ramage. Other distinguished guests included Mr. Peter Gallanosa, brother of Mme. Gardecki; pianist Dr. Michael Slavin,1st prize winner of WIPAC’s 2014 competition (who will be performing this year), art patrons Ms. Lola Reinsch and Mr. Mike Rokni. The event was attended by the Minister Counselor of Culture and Tourism of the Embassy of China, Ms. Chen Chunmei

"Soy americano de muchos colores que hace tan bella a toda mi gente." - Jonathan Acosta Jonathan Acosta's launch of his new album "Americano Somos," on the stage of the Performing Arts Center at Washington Liberty High School in Arlington, was a magnificent celebration of the musical genius of America "del norte al sur (o al revés) del sur al norte (como lo ves)" and a healing balm during these troubling times for our immigrant communities. It is an album of belonging, an affirmation that we are all American, either from the northern or southern hemisphere. It celebrates the richness and beauty that diversity brings to American culture. This album offers a musical journey across the American continent, presenting Jonathan Acosta's songs in Spanish, expressing pride in America's diverse identity. Taking the stage with Acosta were talented dancers, bringing the language of dance to celebrate each country, including Ecuador, the Caribbean, Venezuela, Argentina, Colombia and Mexico. In "Mosaico del Caribe," the dancers energy was electrifying and the tango performance, accompanied by renowned Bolivian pianist Luis Alberto Rojas, was mesmerizing. The audience represented many of the people who made it possible for renowned Venezuelan singer-songwriter, Jonathan Acosta (@AcostaCanta) to launch this remarkable project, featuring the collaboration of many multi-award-winning artists, recognized by the GRAMMY Awards Academy. Musician and Executive Director of the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, Aaron Myers, congratulated Acosta on his new album, telling the audience, "Don't let anyone stop you from knowing your story." In a heartfelt video appearance, Senator Tim Kaine shared his admiration for Jonathan Acosta, adding, "We need to stand with those who are hurting." Representatives of Arlington government were recognized for their support. Amongst the official sponsors was Carla Bustillos, Founder of the Venezuelan American Caucus and Chair of the DLOV. The message was simple, as Acosta stated, "estamos mostrando que lo que hay dentro de nuestro continente, esta dentro de nosotros (we are showing that what is within our continent is within ourselves). His album can be downloaded at https://acostacanta.bandcamp.com/album/americano-somos