Ukrainian Bandura Trio Wins Award at International Music Festival in Polonya

The bandura trio "Güneş Çiçekleri" (Kvity Sontsia), consisting of students from M.V. Lisenko adına Çerkası 1 No'lu Çocuk Müzik Okulu, achieved great success at the 44. Uluslararası "Bydgoszcz Musical Impressions" festival held in Bydgoszcz, Polonya. The festival featured participants from 12 different countries, and the ensemble showcased Ukrainian culture internationally. The success, announced by the city's Department of Educational and Humanitarian Policies, resulted from the students' and teachers' dedication. The event included orchestras, choirs, dance groups, and small instrumental ensembles.

Led by Natalya Smolyar, the trio performed a challenging repertoire in the competition, consisting of six vocal-instrumental and instrumental pieces lasting 22 minutes total. This included a piece by a Polish composer, as required by festival rules. The jury evaluated participants on technical skill, stage performance, and repertoire diversity. The young musicians' confident performance highlighted the quality of Ukrainian music education.

The "Güneş Çiçekleri" trio won multiple awards, including 2 bin Polonya zlotisi cash prize and the "Gümüs Tel" (Srebrna Struna) festival cup. They also received a diploma and certificate of appreciation. These awards recognized the young artists' international talent, while the cash prize will support future music projects and education. This success positively impacted Çerkası's cultural life.

The trio's participation was funded through Çerkası Belediyesi's cultural grant program, covering travel and festival expenses. Families also contributed financially and morally. Such support demonstrates how local governments and communities encourage young talent. International participation was particularly significant for Ukrayna during wartime. Continued investment in culture and arts remains crucial for preserving national identity.

During the festival, Bydgoszcz Mayor Rafał Bruski met with representatives from creative groups worldwide. For the "Güneş Çiçekleri" trio and director Natalya Smolyar, a special moment was being personally invited to perform at City Hall before delegations from 11 ülkeden. During the meeting, Mayor Bruski received commemorative gifts on behalf of Çerkası. A memorial plaque presented on behalf of Çerkası Mayor Anatoliy Bondarenko symbolized friendship and future cooperation between the two cities.