Parafia jako przestrzeń aktywności kulturalnej polskich imigrantów. Z życia muzycznego Polonii chicagowskiej do roku 1914
The Parish as a Space of Cultural Activity for Polish Immigrants from the Musical Life of Chicago’s Polish Community up to 1914

Summary/Abstract: This article shows the forms of cultural activity of Polish immigrants, the space for the implementation of which remained in Polish parishes which were established and operating in large numbers in Chicago. It focuses on aspects related to the musical life of the local Polish community in the period from the organisation of the first Polish ethnic parish in the city – St Stanislaus Kostka Parish (1867) up to 1914. As communities were formed, various parish organisations and institutions of a socio-cultural nature were established. These included choirs and singing groups focusing on the dissemination of both religious and secular music. Their formation was often initiated by church organists. Performers in these groups enriched the liturgy with their performances, prepared concerts and vocal shows. The best-known figures of the Polish music scene at that time included Antoni Małłek, Andrzej Kwasigroch and soloists Róża Kwasichroch and Agnieszka Nering. Through the emerging musical initiatives, the parish audience was able to participate in cultural life and enjoy their free time. At the same time, thanks to the repertoire presented, which included popular Polish songs as well as songs of a patriotic nature, they had an impact on promoting Polish national identity and shaping the identity of the listeners.

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