The visual side of the Philly POPS: Photos by Michael Krajewski

Michael Krajewski, music director of the Philly POPS and globetrotting conductor, is known for his finely tuned ear, but few know that his eye is almost as finely tuned. This weekend, Krajewski’s visual skill will be on display when an exhibit of his photos pops up at the Kimmel Center.

Simply framed and propped on easels, the 11 photographs of Venice, Florence, Paris, Kyoto, Amsterdam, Tanzania, and Bass Harbor, Maine could easily be dwarfed by the cavernous Commonwealth Plaza. Yet if you pause before them, Philadelphia melts away, and you’re standing on a stone parapet in the Cinque Terre, watching as the sunset paints tiny hillside towns pink and gold.

Italy is a favorite subject, Krajewski noted at a preview. He uses photography as a respite on tour and only began taking photos five or six years ago — devastating news for travelers who have been shooting far longer to far less effect. The blow is softened a little when Krajewski explains that he takes multiple shots and makes ample use of the tweaking tools available to digital photographers, but everything starts with the eye of the artist, and Krajewski’s is excellent.

The photos on exhibit are available for sale, with proceeds benefitting POPS in Schools, an educational program to be introduced in schools in the city and region this fall. Krajewski, who was persuaded to show his work for the first time by Philly POPS President Frank Giordano, says there may be exhibits in other concert venues. This spring alone, Krajewski will conduct in Bilbao, Spain, plus St. Louis, Milwaukee, and Buffalo. In addition, he’ll be in Atlanta, Jacksonville, and Houston, where he is principal pops conductor for their respective symphonies.

On the Road: Photos by Philly POPS Music Director Michael Krajewski is appearing April 10 from 7pm to 11pm, and April 11-12 from 2pm to 6pm at The Kimmel Center, 300 South Broad Street, Philadelphia. For photo purchase information, call 215-875-8004.