On the album, the sun has dimmed; two languages – Kashubian and Polish – have intertwined with the sound of the bandura, expressing a shared message in a powerful voice. This unprecedented combination of Kashubian and the most recognizable Ukrainian instrument has simultaneously become a summary of my compositional work set to texts on the theme of passion. The poetic-biblical narrative of the choir
is intertwined with meditative interludes by Inny Sheremet, deeply pierced by the authentic experience of war. Naturally, "słuńce sã zacmiło"
is both an attempt to bring together three identities and a testament to our present – a world with shaky foundations, torn by conflicts... If this music does not directly change reality, perhaps immersing oneself in it will prompt reflections on the human condition, transform helplessness into action, and provide – albeit bitter – consolation?
I am grateful to the vocal ensemble Poznań Group Ensemble and conductor, Michał Plichta, for their great openness to the numerous challenges associated with recording seven of my compositions. The ensemble presented a high level of performance and a moving interpretation of my choral songs.
I especially appreciate the willingness of Poznań Group Ensemble to learn the pronunciation of a new language for them – Kashubian. Michał Plichta professionally engaged in our collaboration: from discussions around initial ideas, through my active involvement in the recording process, to the final arrangements regarding the registration of the works and their presence in the ensemble's repertoire.
Although the recorded compositions were created over the past nine years, it was only thanks to the collaboration with Poznań Group Ensemble that they were captured in a coherent narrative, which
I cannot imagine without the immense support and great creativity of the ensemble and its conductor.
Michał Sołtysik
Christmas Concert Melodies
Poznań Group Ensemble
Poznań