There, he expanded his knowledge and polished his musical skills at the famous Barklee School of Music, where he played with many great jazz musicians.

The stay in the US shaped this percussionist’s character to such an extent that, upon his return to Poland after 15 years, he quickly became an influential member of Zbyszek Namysłowski’s band.

Less than 2 years later, he created his own band, whose name will forever be attached to him –“Quintessence”.

This band immediately became a significant element of the Polish jazz scene of the end of the 20^th century.

The musicians that have performed in this band make up the essence of what is the best in Polish jazz. Henryk Miśkiewicz, Leszek Możdżer, Piotr Wojtasik, Maciej Sikala, Wojciech Karolak, Jacek and Wojtek Niedziela, Piotr Baron to name a few.

Their debut album “Birthday” was awarded the best jazz album of 1992, and Eryk Kulm was named the best Polish jazz percussionist.

All of this proves to jazz fans that bands led by Eryk Kulm are nothing less than the “quintessence” of what is good in Polish jazz.

Eryk Kulm created a real band full of mutual understanding and swing! Concerts performed by this group have been applauded on many stages both in Poland and abroad. Reviews of performances were not only positive, but also enthusiastic.

“The name ‘Quintessence’, as Eryk underlines, did not spring from the word quintet, but was to convey the essence of jazz, which is comprised of swing, blues, the joy of playing, and surrendering yourself during a concert. Regardless of whether we are playing in a quintet or a trio, it will always be the ‘Quintessence’.”

Press Commentaries:

Eryk Kulm is a gentleman with amazing class, not just in music. He’s full of warmth and kind humor, but, at the same time, he is resolute. (…) It is so rare to find people on stage, who really have something to say.

Marcin Kydryński

“Quintessence” remains the group full of stars. Though it is not the stars, but the ideal cooperation of sound and permeating swing that are the most precious virtues.

from the Jazz Jamboree program

“Quintessence” attracts with its swing anyone who seeks joy in music and is not necessarily a jazz fan.

(ak)