The intention of Adam ?ukiewicz, a Polish pianist developing his artistic career in North America, is to provide the listener of this recording with a unique diversity of musical experiences. ?ukiewicz, being an enthusiast of new music, regularly presents contemporary works and performs premieres of new compositions. This category includes, written especially for the purposes of this album, the cycle Images by Krystian Kie?b, or Goodbye Old Friend by Oscar Peterson in the arrangement of Don Thompson and Adam ?ukiewicz. It is not a coincidence, however, that the album bears an original title The Beginnings the most classical piano staples with Beethoven and Chopin show how strong and diverse the musical inspirations of the artist are.