Ignacy Jan Paderewski (1860–1941), a virtuoso pianist, composer, politician (Prime Minister of independent Poland after World War I), humanitarian and orator, was universally acclaimed as a „Modern Immortal” by his contemporaries. His charismatic personality and popular appeal made him one of the most cherished figures of the 20th century. Although his bold political vision for a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural United States of Poland was never realized, his musical legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians all around the world.