15 / 10 / 24

Traditional Music and Dance Convention

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Traditional Music and Dance Convention

From October 12th to 14th, 2024, the picturesque Creative Work Center in Radziejowice hosted the Traditional Music and Dance Convention—an event of great significance for enthusiasts of cultural heritage. During the three-day gathering, lovers of traditional music and dance had the opportunity to participate in panel discussions, workshops, and dance parties, creating a space to exchange experiences and establish new collaborations.

This year’s Convention also welcomed representatives of the “Wielkopolanie” Folklore Ensemble. One of the standout participants was Paweł Zawadzki, who led a workshop titled “Dancing and Singing – On the Integrative Nature of Traditional Games.” This workshop focused on demonstrating how traditional forms of games can integrate different age and social groups, as well as how they are used in cultural education.

Paweł Zawadzki also presented the process of forming collaborations between traditional musicians, state institutions, and folklore ensembles. His presentation emphasized the importance of cooperation between various environments in promoting folk culture and its adaptation to contemporary realities. He highlighted the crucial role that institutions play in preserving and supporting traditions, as well as how professional ensembles, such as “Wielkopolanie,” can serve as ambassadors of traditional music and dance at various levels.

Rich Program and Slovak Perspective

The Convention was filled with discussions, workshops, and performances by special guests, including Slovak dancers, musicians, and cultural animators. They led a workshop titled “The Path to Improvisation in Traditional Dance,” where participants learned about the specifics of cooperation between stage ensembles and Dance Houses in Slovakia, as well as the secrets of spontaneity in traditional dance.

Convention participants also had the opportunity to engage in discussions on fundamental issues related to cultural heritage. Panelists sought to answer questions about how to learn from rural masters, how to translate archival records into living practice, and how to build coalitions in support of traditional culture. A key aspect of these discussions was also the collaboration between various institutions and environments, exemplified by Paweł Zawadzki’s presentation.

Workshops and Dance Parties – A Celebration of Living Tradition

The workshops led by invited guests, including those by the “Wielkopolanie” ensemble, offered participants a chance to learn traditional dances and games in a hands-on way. Paweł Zawadzki’s workshop helped participants understand how traditional forms of activity can bridge generational gaps and strengthen local communities.

Evening dance parties, during which folk music echoed throughout the Creative Work Center, became the highlight of each day. They were a true celebration of living tradition, bringing participants together in joyful, communal dance.

Summary

The Traditional Music and Dance Convention in Radziejowice not only inspired further efforts to protect and promote folk culture but also demonstrated the importance of collaboration between artistic, educational, and state institutions. Paweł Zawadzki’s presentation and the participation of the “Wielkopolanie” Ensemble were a perfect example of this. Thanks to such initiatives, traditional culture has the chance not only to survive but to thrive, engaging future generations in discovering its richness and beauty.

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