Maria Siwiec
One of the best singers from the Radom region. Born in Gałki near Przysucha, in the musically remarkable micro-region of Kajoki. She grew up in the musical tradition of her village, listening to songs sung by her father, mother and older sisters since childhood. She also sang from an early age – first with her father and sisters, then as a bridesmaid at wedding receptions.
From 1980, she performed in the band Zakukała kukułeczka. Later, in 2012, she founded the band Gołcunecki.
What sets her apart from other singers is her authentic, natural voice and expression that comes ‘straight from the heart’.
She was honoured with the Kolberg Award (2015) and a scholarship from the Minister of Culture and National Heritage (2014) for her contributions to folk culture. She is also a talented traditional dancer who, together with her husband Wacław, has won awards, including the ‘Taneczny Krąg’ (Dance Circle) in 1996.
She runs traditional singing and dancing workshops, teaching subsequent generations. For several years, she has been running a Traditional Music Centre for children and young people from the area. She also founded a children’s band in Gałki.
