Polish-Scottish Mini Festival 2024: A Cultural Extravaganza

On behalf of the Polish Association Aberdeen, we extend a warm invitation to all – residents of Aberdeen, our neighbors from the surrounding areas, and those from afar (come explore our magnificent granite city) to join us for a remarkable series of cultural events taking place from January to March 2024 as part of the 7th edition of the Polish-Scottish Mini Festival.

This marks the seventh installment of the Polish-Scottish Mini Festival, a testament to the enduring celebration of the rich tapestry of Polish and Scottish cultures coming together.

Get ready for an enchanting journey filled with music, dance, and the flavors of two distinct worlds. The festival promises to captivate your senses and leave you with cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary cultural extravaganza that continues to bridge our communities and create lasting connections.

Join us in celebrating the vibrancy of the Polish-Scottish cultural exchange and be a part of something truly special. See you at the festival!

Tickets_____ £15
www.eventbrite.co.uk

Location

The Blue Lamp
121 Gallowgate Aberdeen AB25 1BU

SVAHY: A Melodic Journey Through Polish Folk Music

19 January 2024

Meet, a trio of talented girls hailing from the city, but their hearts are deeply rooted in the enchanting world of traditional country music. They’ve embarked on a captivating journey, discovering the rich folk songs from the picturesque regions of Paluki and the lesser-known Kuyavia, where the wind carries tales from one village to another.

 

bring a unique blend of instruments to life and serenade you with stories from the lives of past villagers. Their mesmerizing single “O, moj wianku lawendowy” is the first glimpse into their upcoming EP, “rozkiedyś.”

 

But that’s not all – have ventured into the world of soundtracks, contributing their melodic talents to the latest Netflix production, “Forgotten Love.” Let their harmonious tunes transport you to a world where tradition meets the contemporary.

 

Performers: 

 Patrycja Cywińska-Gacka – frame drum, tongue steel drum, vocals
 Ewa Pater – Biłgoraj suka, mandolin, guitar, vocals
 Małgorzata Żurańska-Wilkowska – hurdy-gurdy, vocals.

 

Songs:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oE_xHfsD8jA

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJfq2CJsVI0

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4v4lGjjcVr8

Utwory ze “Znachora”/Songs from “Forgotten love”:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGtd9SzlOys

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Ua7OQFsYBk

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dG7vSnOEwm0

Tickets_____ £10 – £20
www.eventbrite.co.uk

Location

Aberdeen Football Club
Pittodrie Street Richard Donald Stand Reception on Golf Road
Aberdeen AB24 5QH

Polish-Scottish Ceilidh: Where Scottish and Polish Rhythms Unite

20 January 2024

Get ready to tap your feet and twirl to the vibrant sounds of Danse McCabre, the sensational ceilidh band that promises an unforgettable fusion of Scottish and Polish songs and dances. 

Established in 2003, Danse McCabre quickly became a renowned name in the world of ceilidh music, gracing stages throughout Scotland and even reaching international shores in Norway, Poland, Slovenia, and Holland. With their signature pink kilts and energetic style, this all-female ensemble offers a dynamic mix of rip-roaring Scottish tunes, sprinkled with a touch of Irish and European music.

But that’s not all – when you join Danse McCabre’s performance, you’re in for a treat beyond the music. Your ticket includes a delightful journey for your taste buds with traditional Polish and Scottish food tasting.

Not a seasoned ceilidh dancer? No worries! Danse McCabre ensures everyone can join in on the fun. All the dances are thoughtfully explained, expertly demonstrated and gently walked through, ensuring a rollicking and enjoyable ceilidh experience, even for those who have never danced Scottish dances before.

Experience the magic of this fantastic all-girl ceilidh band, accompanied by their excellent Dance-Caller. As described by Real Weddings Magazine, Danse McCabre offers a night to remember with their remarkable musicianship and professionalism. Let Danse McCabre provide you with an evening you won’t soon forget, filled with joy and memorable moments.

Stay tuned for more exciting updates and announcements as we still preparing for this event.

Workshop:
Polish&Scottish Traditions

21 January 2024

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Polish and Scottish traditions at our third festival event. Feel the vibrant rhythm of the Grand Finale of the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity as we join our friends from WOŚP Aberdeen in the 31st Finale. Let the enchanting melodies and moves of the Scottish Culture & Traditions musicians sweep you off your feet with traditional Scottish dances. Then, the Polish-Scottish Song and Story Group will take you on a musical journey through the heartwarming tunes of Polish and Scottish traditions. We extend a warm invitation to families of all generations, curious souls, and anyone intrigued by our shared Polish and Scottish heritage to join us at the Polish Association Aberdeen headquarters in the Trinity Centre. Together, let’s celebrate and learn about the cultural treasures that unite us.

Tickets_____ £30
www.aberdeenperformingarts.com

 

Location

The Lemon Tree
West North Street, Aberdeen

Happysad: Two Decades of Musical Joy in Poland

03 February 2024

Founded in 2001 in Skarżysko-Kamienna, Happysad has established itself as one of the most beloved and popular bands in Poland. With a track record of over 1300 concerts across the country, they’ve garnered immense fan support, consistently selling out their shows. The band proudly boasts 5 platinum and 3 gold records, as well as setting attendance records at numerous renowned Polish clubs.

Their musical journey began in July 2004 with the release of their debut album, “Wszystko jedno,” followed by “Podróże i pod prąd” a year later. The third album, “Nieprzygoda,” was launched during the third edition of the SKARfest festival on September 1, 2007, and instantly topped OLIS, Poland’s best-selling album list. “Wszystko jedno” and “Nieprzygoda” have both achieved platinum status.

Happysad’s live concert DVD, “Na żywo w STUDIO,” earned the coveted status of a gold record on the day of its release in November 24, 2008, subsequently turning platinum half a year later. In October 2011, they celebrated their ten-year journey with the release of “Zadyszka,” a jubilee compilation featuring two albums. The band collaborated with 13 friendly bands to recreate their songs on the first disc, while the second disc featured a DVD of their concert in Jarocin with guest appearances.

Each subsequent album release from Happysad swiftly debuted at the top of OLIS, turning gold in no time. Notable albums include “Mów mi dobrze” in 2009 and “Ciepło/zimno” in 2012, both of which achieved platinum status.

In 2013, Happysad released another DVD and 2CD, capturing their performances at Przystanek Woodstock in 2012 and their Golden Topping Out award-winning performance in 2013. Their album “Jakby nie było jutra,” released in 2014, debuted at No. 1 on OLIS in October 2014, earned favorable reviews, and received gold record status within a month.

The band’s subsequent album, “Ciało obce,” arrived in February 2017, accompanied by 11 music videos produced by the SKY Piastowskie team, which collectively garnered over 10 million views within a year. The album also earned gold record status.

Happysad’s eighth album, “Rekordowo Letnie Lato,” was released on November 29, 2019, with the band collaborating with five producers during its creation. In 2020, the band released a concert recording (2CD / DVD) from their performance at Pol’and’Rock Festival 2019.

In 2021, Happysad celebrated their twentieth anniversary with the release of a special album titled “Odrzutowce i Kowery” and the publication of the biographical book “Zanim pójdę. Długa droga zespołu Happysad” by Żaneta Gotowalska. Their remarkable journey in Polish music continues to captivate audiences and leave a lasting legacy.