PHOTOS BY CHRISOM BEEBE
The Art of Passion: Dr. Beata Golec’s Life in Harmony
Rochester Woman Online proudly closes out 2025 with an inspiring and extraordinary woman whose life has been shaped by passion, precision, and purpose — Dr. Beata Golec. A world-class pianist, award-winning composer, and dedicated educator, Dr. Golec’s story is one of resilience, brilliance, and boundless creativity. From her early beginnings in Poland, where her musical journey began at just seven years old, to performing on international stages and shaping the next generation of musicians here in Upstate New York, her life is a symphony of talent, perseverance, and heart.
With a musical foundation rooted in discipline and excellence, Beata’s journey took her from the prestigious Frederic Chopin University of Music in Warsaw to the Eastman School of Music in Rochester — where she earned both her Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts degrees. Along the way, she has composed nationally recognized works, performed around the world, and built a reputation as a passionate leader and mentor whose influence extends far beyond the stage.
Today, as a professor at SUNY Geneseo and RIT, the founder of Golec Music Studio in Victor, and the visionary behind the Young Musicians’ Concerts that support local food pantries, Dr. Golec continues to blend artistry with purpose. Her philosophy of empathetic leadership, her commitment to nurturing students of all ages and abilities, and her belief in music as a powerful tool for healing and connection have made her a beloved figure in both the educational and arts communities.
As the recipient of numerous honors — including the 2020 SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching, the 2024 Victor Business Award, and the Ontario County ATHENA Leadership Award — Dr. Golec embodies what it means to live with authenticity and lead with heart. Whether she’s composing, teaching, or performing, her mission remains the same: to inspire others to listen deeply, think critically, and create fearlessly.
In this exclusive interview, Dr. Golec shares her remarkable journey — from her roots in Poland to her life as a mother, mentor, and musical force in Rochester. Her words are as eloquent as her music, offering wisdom on leadership, perseverance, creativity, and the transformative power of following your true passion.
You’ve built an incredible career as a pianist, composer, and educator. Can you share a bit about your early beginnings in Poland and how your passion for music first took root?
My musical journey began at age 7, upon my acceptance into the Mieczyslaw Karlowicz School of Music in Katowice, Poland. The educational system in Poland is highly comprehensive and provides a wide array of challenging opportunities to the most excelling students. Music students play juries and complete exams in music theory and ear-training each semester. By the time I was in high school, my class-load included piano, accompanying, cello, orchestra, form analysis, music history, aural skills, part writing, counterpoint, conducting and orchestration. I attended all these music activities in addition to being a student in a “regular” high school. My typical weekday was filled with classes, lessons and practicing – about twelve hours a day.
Then, I studied at the Frederic Chopin University of Music in Warsaw (piano performance and literature) and at the Karol Szymanowski University of Music in Katowice (composition and music theory). I was a full-time student at two higher ed institutions located 200 miles from each other. I rode the Intercity trains between Katowice and Warsaw at least three times a week. What I really appreciated the most about the Polish education was not just the fact of how solid it was, but how competitive it was, and the fact it was completely free. The most accomplished students received scholarships from the Polish government. The scholarships arrived in the form of a monthly stipend payment, and I was the recipient of these scholarships each year at both universities. In my freshman year in Warsaw, I was invited to attend the Chautauqua Institution Summer Music School on a full scholarship. It was a life-changing experience which propelled my interest in the Eastman School of Music, and I developed many friendships. I studied at Eastman on a full scholarship and earned Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts degrees in Piano Performance and Literature. In addition to my Eastman studies, I was a PhD student in Composition at University of Buffalo for one year. Given the fact, I was enrolled as a full-time doctoral student at two universities, served as a teaching assistant at Eastman and was working; I found myself stretched too thin, and ended my Buffalo journey. While still at Eastman, I became an examiner for the Advanced Placement in Music Theory, accepted a teaching position at SUNY Geneseo and became the Director of Music Programs for the Diocese of Rochester.
My amazing Mom Alicja Golec, who also is an accomplished music educator, was the initial inspiration and catalyst of my journey. She noticed I had a good ear at an early age. We later discovered that I had perfect pitch which was very helpful in my aural skills classes and for transcribing music. Of course, as a 7-year-old I did not want to practice (!). My maturity and appreciation for the amazing field of music came at age 10. At that point I knew I would pursue advanced degrees in music. I had interest in piano, theory, composition, improvisation, and conducting.
I am beyond grateful to my wonderful parents who supported me and who sacrificed their time and resources to assist me in excelling as an artist and leader. They provided me with superior academic opportunities, wholesome upbringing, and high moral and ethical standards.
At just 13 years old, you began composing, and by 16, your piece Fantazja Polska was already receiving national recognition. What inspired that piece, and what did it mean to have your work preserved in the Vatican?
“Bogurodzica” is a medieval Christian chant composed sometime between the 10th and 13th centuries in Poland. The lyrics of the piece translate to:
“Virgin, Mother of God, God-famed Mary!
Ask Thy Son, our Lord, God-names Mary,
To have mercy upon us and hand it over to us!
Kyrie Eleison!”
“Bogurodzica” was my inspiration to write “Fantazja Polska”. The chant was embedded and often hidden in the fabric of my composition. For the instrumentation I chose the cello given its lyrical and warm sound while the accompaniment was provided by the piano.
How did your transition from Poland to the United States shape your musical journey and the way you approach teaching and performing today?
I strongly believe that resilience and adaptability are the skills that shaped me and my life’s journey. Adaptability relates to resilience. It translates to being open to changes in our lives. And, due to the fact our circumstances might evolve unexpectedly or within a short notice, it is a very valuable skill in today’s world. Changing continents, changing languages, and changing cultures have taught me how to adjust on a spot.
My profession (performer, leader, organizer, and educator) has taught me to stay open-minded, to use critical thinking and clear communication, and to seek opportunities to grow in situations which might seem challenging or impossible to solve.
As an educator, I strive to address the needs of very young pupils, neurodiverse children and adults, adult learners who have high expectations of their growth yet with limited physical agility due to aging, illness, lack of flexibility or memory loss, those who are retired and are looking for a new sense in their lives, and those who gave up on music but are coming back to it decades later to experience its healing power. I prepare students for NYSSMA competitions, music theater and choral auditions, college and graduate school auditions and job interviews. The versatility of my students’ and clients’ needs requires highly developed adaptability on my part.
You wear many hats—professor, composer, performer, and director. How do you balance your creative pursuits with your teaching responsibilities at SUNY Geneseo and RIT?
I am known for being highly organized and reliable, and have the habit of notating all, even smallest details and ideas in my notebook. But truly, what helps the most is pursuing a career which is a life-long passion and never a chore. The willingness to learn and acquire new skills, stepping outside one’s comfort zone and expecting oneself to continuously improve and perfect their skills are my professional objectives.
A well-balanced life is based on knowing one’s limitations, staying healthy (both physically and emotionally), saying “no” when necessary and respecting one’s time which might translate to not pursuing relationships or projects that could potentially disrupt the previously achieved equilibrium.
Receiving the 2020 SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching is a huge honor. What does that recognition mean to you personally and professionally?
I am truly honored to be the recipient of this award. This recognition not only confirms my commitment to the excellence and highest quality of the educational services I provide but also instills a high sense of responsibility in me. My goal is to provide original and creative teaching methods and to focus on the intellectual development and success of my students. I strive to continuously refine my skills and to participate in many professional development opportunities. I collaborate with multiple local organizations and am committed to serving our community best to my ability.
You’ve also been recognized with the 2024 Victor Business Awards and the Ontario County ATHENA Leadership Award. How do you see your work contributing to leadership and empowerment in the arts and beyond?
“Before you can become an authentic leader, you have to know who you are. That’s your true north: your most deeply held beliefs, your values, the principles you lead by, and what inspires you” – Bill George
Authentic leadership is based on vulnerability, honesty, accountability and treating others with compassion. It is exhibited through efficient self-presentation, clarity of communication, active listening but mainly through the way we treat others. Empathetic leadership is founded on understanding the needs of others and striving to meet them. My goal is to build trust, strong relationships and to support the growth of others. These in turn improve the workplace and classroom environment, sustainability and morale.
Critical, despotic and judgmental “leadership” is short-lived, causes trauma, limits communication and collaboration, and prevents inventiveness or idea sharing. I was a victim of supervisors of this type and still remember the stress and actual physical pain each time I had to work with such individuals.
My intention is to lead by giving an example and to “walk the walk.” I like to embark on collaborative projects and to instill a sense of belonging and meaning in the young generation of students and musicians. I want the young artists and performers to be proud of their work and creativity, to truly own their inventions and to be confident in presenting them to others. And this is why Young Musicians’ Concerts are so vital and significant to me.
I founded Young Musicians Concerts in 2016. These concerts are organized twice a year and serve as fundraisers for the food pantries at Holy Cross and Our Mother of Sorrows Churches in Rochester, New York which support the less fortunate members of our community.
The first mission of the Concerts is to provide a stress-free environment for the performers. The musicians do not have to have their music memorized, nor is the performance order predetermined (no printed programs). I typically begin each recital with my own composition (leading by example) and then invite students to come to the piano and play or sing. Each student introduces themselves and announces the music selections they are about to perform. The second mission of the Concerts is to raise funds for important community outreach programs such as the Food Pantries at Holy Cross and Our Mother of Sorrows Churches. Our last recital was presented on November 9, 2025 at Our Mother of Sorrows Church located at 5000 Mount Read Blvd in Rochester, New York.
Tell us more about Golec Music Studio in Victor. What inspired you to open it, and how is it different from a traditional music school?
Music is my life – literally. I make music seven days a week. It is my profession and passion. It fills my life to the fullest. I am very lucky to have chosen a career path that I am enthusiastic about and one that I love. I think about, feel, breathe and share music. The “sharing” part is crucial as music cannot live without being shared. And this is why I founded Golec Music Studio.
The mission of Golec Music Studio is to inspire and nurture the next generation of artists. At the studio, students of all ages and skill levels can explore a diverse range of musical disciplines, from piano and voice to intricate music theory and composition. The studio also offers specialized services, including Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate exam preparation, ensuring students are well-equipped for academic challenges.
Beyond traditional lessons, Golec Music Studio provides comprehensive support for college and music theater auditions, helping aspiring performers shine on stage. In addition to a focus on competition readiness, recordings, and transcriptions, my expertise extends to creating unforgettable musical experiences for weddings, celebrations of life, charity and corporate events. At Golec Music Studio, students don’t just learn music; they build confidence, creativity, and a lifelong appreciation for the art.
Your studio offers everything from piano and voice lessons to music theory, composition, and even exam prep for AP and IB programs. Why is it important to provide such a well-rounded music education?
Understanding the structure of music, its origins, composer’s circumstances and inspirations are the foundations of true and complete musicianship. One could not provide an authentic interpretation of a musical piece without learning about all the above. As Evelynn Glennie shared in her TED Talk entitled “How to truly listen?” there is so much more to comprehend and to listen for than just the notes on a piece of paper. The science, complexity and beauty of music go far beyond the manuscript. And this is exactly why my students explore music theory, history, and analysis in our sessions. They learn the investigative and critical thinking skills which in turn allow them to become independent and confident.
You’ve helped many students prepare for competitions, college auditions, and performances. What do you find most rewarding about mentoring the next generation of musicians?
My students’ success is a very powerful motivator. As we prepare for auditions, competitions and job interviews, we focus our attention on their goal and think positively to fuel their actions and willingness to work harder. All this leads to a greater productivity and higher success rate. I love hearing about my students’ scholarships, internships and job opportunities. I am proud of their growth and involvement in the community.
You’ve performed all over the world—from Carnegie Hall to concert halls in Poland, Austria, and Spain. Is there one performance or venue that holds special meaning for you?
Yes, absolutely! It was my faculty recital on October 19, 2024. I performed my original compositions set to image installations by local photographers. The photographers in the concert were not aware of the emotional content of each piece and prepared their image interpretations based solely on the musical landscape of the compositions.
At the beginning of the concert my Balbutiendo Piano was looping through the sound system as the audience members arrived. Balbutiendo Piano (which means Stuttering Piano) was a collaborative project I completed with Ed Hallborg a few years ago. It was a semi-minimal looping improvisation triptych recorded in Doty Hall. The Steinway piano was processed and manipulated through electronic filtering equipment in “real-time” and fed back to me via headphones. I then responded to it on the piano while the equipment was playing the next sequence. The entire musical material was created on- the-spot since it was an improvisation.
The concert concluded with a prepared piano improvisation. Prepared piano is a technique invented by American composer John Cage in the 1940s. It involves altering the sound of the piano by placing screws, bolts, mutes, rubber, paper and other objects inside the instrument and between the strings. The performer plays on the keyboard, uses the pedals, but also plucks and scrapes the strings, knocks on the soundboard and the frame of the instrument to create out-of-the-box sound which is unique and different from the traditional acoustic landscape of the piano. This was a one-of-a-kind experience for me, and I loved the multimedia collaborative aspect of the performance.
You’ve worked with many world-renowned musicians like Marvin Hamlisch and Angela Hewitt. What lessons have you learned from collaborating with such icons?
Over the years, I participated in masterclasses and interviews with performers and composers representing diverse musical genres. My takeaway from all these valuable experiences was to always listen, take notes and to keep in mind that there are many ways to look at the same subject. Open-minded attitude allows us to hear the others’ perspective and to learn from their experience and wisdom. It truly is a privilege when a mentor shares their wisdom with the younger generation of artists. Wisdom develops over decades and requires being receptive to new ideas, willingness to listen and eagerness to learn.
Many of your compositions—like Forests, Clouds, and Phobia—are incredibly evocative. Can you tell us about your creative process when composing new works?
It is very simple, actually. I compose at the piano and write by hand. I find handwriting much more meaningful and artistic than the computer program method. My focus is harmony, sonority and color.
As a woman composer and conductor in what has historically been a male-dominated field, what challenges have you faced—and how have you overcome them?
Women leaders are continuously facing workplace related challenges based on gender bias, microaggression, limited mentorship opportunities, and even harassment. I am fortunate to work for institutions that foster equality and high ethical standards. I strongly believe in education about discrimination, mentoring young women and speaking up when injustices of any kind occur in a workplace.
In the past I worked for a supervisor who yelled at women employees, caused them to emotionally break down, and mocked their job performance. I stood up to this individual on several occasions, confronted him and informed him I would not tolerate working in a hostile environment. He in turn retaliated by lowering my salary and increasing my job-related duties. He gave me 30 days to sign the new contract. One week later I interviewed for a new job and said “goodbye” to the toxic environment and retaliatory actions. It was one of the best professional decisions I made.
Just recently, a colleague of mine was impersonated online and I received a fake message “from him”. It originated from a foreign platform, was worded in a very formal way, and included a proposal to sell an item. I wrote to this individual’s institutional email address and provided screenshots of the received email to make him aware of this troubling situation. He responded not by thanking me, but rather by “mansplaining”, advising me to “look up” the definition of phishing on Google, and that he hoped “that it was helpful”.
Microaggressions are hostile and offensive and target many aspects of who we are. It is essential to recognize and to appropriately address these behaviors to establish healthy and safe boundaries. There are several publications that provide ideas and strategies on how to deal with and how to respond to microaggressions. I highly recommend Harvard Business Review and their books on leadership and workplace environment dynamics. My favorite ones are “Confidence”, “Empathy”, “Resilience”, “Happiness” and “Mindfulness”.
You’ve performed both as a solo artist and in collaboration with choirs, orchestras, and other musicians. Do you prefer one over the other, and why?
I enjoy both! But I find more meaning in making music together as it develops strong interpersonal bonds between the members of the ensemble. It fosters connection, unity, shared goals, teamwork and empathy. Collaborative music making brings joy and stimulates the release of endorphins.
Music is a very powerful tool that brings us together and promotes trust and relief from stress. Several of my students admitted that music sessions are a form of therapy for them. Music is an escape from their daily stresses, anxieties and troubles. They enter a safe and positive world of artistry and creativity, even if it is only for one hour a week.
What role do you believe music plays in healing and community connection, especially in today’s world?
The need to belong and to be accepted is one of the most powerful human needs and desires. Social connection and togetherness are key factors in establishing happy and healthy lives. The world of social media and unrealistic expectations of perfection cause anxiety, depression and loneliness. Replacing genuine in-person relationships and interactions with the online ones causes the feeling of emptiness and exclusion to most. Making music together fosters emotional health and life’s balance, and this is why it is critical to include music education and composition in our lives regardless of ability or age.
You’ve been part of the Rochester and Upstate New York arts community for many years. How do you see the local music scene evolving, and what excites you most about its future?
Rochester music scene is vibrant and highly diverse. We are lucky to have multiple music organizations and festivals in our area. There are concerts, recitals, and charity events offered each week in this region. I am very hopeful about the number of local fundraising efforts in our community. Charity initiatives bring out our goodness and I like to focus on them. By sharing our time, talent and treasure we provide essential resources to those in need, advocate for issues like equality, affordable housing, safer society, promote understanding and acceptance, and teach the children and teens how to treat others and how to express empathy towards all the members of our community.
So, after all, music is not made for music’s sake. Rather, music’s value is beyond its formal or aesthetic qualities. It fosters the sense of community and serves as a practical tool for expression, individual development, and promotes emotional well-being.
What advice would you give to young musicians—especially women—who dream of building a career in music or the arts?
Stay strong and never give up! Share your ideas with trusted mentors and ask for their advice. Collaborate with other professionals even if they are not in your field. Such collaborations will broaden your horizons and will stretch your abilities, Brainstorming can bring some meaningful breakthroughs. Never doubt your abilities or question the worthiness of your projects.
Yes – there will be pushbacks, and you might be rejected on several occasions, but big ideas are worth the time and hard work. There will be unpleasant people who cross your path. Eliminate or at least reduce your time around them. Focus your attention and energy on those who support you and who do not judge you. Strive to recognize the “dead end” relationships in both private and professional life as soon as possible and center your time and energy around meaningful projects which can positively impact our community. If you have any music or fundraising ideas, please reach out to me.
When you reflect on your journey—from a young girl composing in Poland to an award-winning educator and performer—what are you most proud of?
I am proud of my heritage and upbringing. I appreciate the Polish history, culture, and the quality of the education. I am lucky to have my parents and my family. Their positive impact has tremendously affected my life and career. Unequivocally, I could not be who I am today without them and their support. Family is everything.
What has been the most transformative moment of your career so far?
Every year of my life brings new experiences and transformations. I could not pinpoint one life event that changed my path, but rather I see it as a domino effect – one small event or decision triggers a chain reaction of positive consequences. “Domino effect” is used in psychology and it describes how one small change in behavior can make a huge and positive change in one’s life overtime. It can be applied to habit formation with a small and manageable action that creates momentum which will cause meaningful shifts in one’s life. To me, the momentum of life is what matters the most. Setting daily goals and consistency will create a snowballing force toward growth and success.
Who has been your greatest mentor or source of inspiration, both personally and professionally?
Unquestionably my parents – Alicja and Dariusz Golec. They are extraordinary role models when it comes to morality, relationship and marriage equality, high standards, work ethic, empathy, fair treatment of others, and emotional intelligence.
I am beyond thankful to them for instilling in me strong moral principles. They provided me with a moral compass that cannot be broken. And now it is my turn to teach my son about the same values.
My parents are two amazing individuals who provided a healthy and balanced home, supported my musical endeavors including moving to another continent to study at the Eastman School of Music and to establish my life here, and showed me how to push the boundaries to always learn and to continuously strive for excellence.
What’s next for you—any upcoming performances, projects, or new compositions you’re especially excited about?
2025 was a very fruitful year. My course proposal was accepted by the Honors Program at SUNY Geneseo, and I had the opportunity to teach “Psyche, mental illness and musical creativity”. We had two successful Young Musicians’ Concerts and one of them was featured in the local news. Golec Music Studio was a proud sponsor of “Breaking the Silence” Masquerade Ball for Suicide and Mental Health Awareness and the 40th Ontario County ATHENA Leadership Awards Ceremony. I was interviewed by three magazines and now am sharing my story with you. My images were presented at a photo exhibition at the Image City Gallery in Rochester, New York. In addition, I performed recitals for several local nursing homes.
The 2026 schedule is continuously evolving. My students and I will participate in two Young Musicians’ Concerts (April and November), and Golec Music Studio will sponsor multiple local initiatives. Stay tuned!
Finally, what does being featured as the cover woman for Rochester Woman Online mean to you, and what message do you hope readers take away from your story?
I am deeply humbled by this recognition! I am thankful to Rochester Woman magazine’s editorial team for their interest in my field and professional endeavors. It is empowering to share our local women leaders’ stories and pursuits. Rochester Woman promotes women by acknowledging their community contributions, passions, successes, and by breaking the traditional stereotypes. Many of my own collaborations are a fruit of being a part of this network. Our world needs publications like Rochester Woman.
