Final call – this train is now ready to depart! Conductor Małgorzata Podzielny leads the NFM Boys’ Choir, the NFM Girls’ Choir, and the Rondo Vocal Ensemble. Gospel standards will be heard, accompanied at the piano by Mikołaj Szczęsny and students of the Jazz Music Department of the Wrocław Academy of Music. All aboard!

Gospel is a religious song tradition of American evangelical communities. In the southern United States, where separate congregations existed for Black descendants of enslaved people, it united the community and carried hope for the restoration of human dignity. Afro-American syncopated rhythms influenced the development of other musical genres, jazz foremost among them. This event’s programme also touches on styles such as spirituals and folk. In the second half of the 20th century, gospel began to function within the framework of popular music. Joyful singing in a large group invariably lifts the spirits.

During the concert, works of mostly unknown authorship will be performed, including some intended for children, such as Heaven Is a Wonderful Place and the title song Gospel Train. Collective performance of songs like these is often used in education, as they build a sense of belonging while guaranteeing great fun. The pieces will be heard in arrangements by conductor Małgorzata Podzielny and Olek Miśkiewicz, an accordionist collaborating with the NFM. In addition to the jazz musicians who will take care of the rhythm and the singers’ comfort, the ensemble will include Mikołaj Szczęsny – a choirmaster active in the capital of Lower Silesia. What an afternoon it promises to be, filled with youthful sound, energy, and the sense of freedom that comes from immersing oneself in music!