Discussion: Traditions Transformed

An exploration of the ways that traditional forms of Polish music and dance, often centuries old, are transformed and given life by meeting contemporary forms. Multi-instrumentalist Robert Nizinski and vocalist/pianist Katarzyna Smoluk-Moczydłowska of the band Księżyc discuss their combination of ancient Slavic pagan music with minimalism and experimental sounds. PC Music affiliate Felicita talks about the Unsound-commissioned performance project Soft Power, which features a hyperreal and frenetic electronic music score for dance by Poland’s Śląsk Song And Dance Ensemble. Also involved in the discussion is Kraków-based executive director of Unsound Gosia Płysa, with moderation by ARTnews Deputy Editor and Unsound curatorial advisor Andy Battaglia.