The typical Orchestra of the Territorial Defence Army stayed on an authoritative visit to Chicago, where at the invitation of the local Polonia, in cooperation with the Illinois National Guard, it celebrated the celebrations of the most crucial national holidays – Flag Day of the Republic of Poland and the Constitution of 3 May. The orchestra's performances not only raised the rank of authoritative celebrations, but besides touched the hearts of thousands of Poles surviving abroad.
Visit to the Consulate
On Wednesday 30 April, in the evening, a visit of a delegation of the WOT Representation Centre, under the command of Colonel Łukasz Baranowski, took place at the General Consulate of the Republic of Poland in Chicago. The soldiers were accepted by the Consul General, Ms Regina Jurkowska, who thanked them for representing Poland with specified a advanced level of professionalism and pride. The gathering was an chance to exchange cordial words with representatives of the Polish community.
2 May – memory and white-red pride
The celebrations began on 2 May – on Flag Day of Poland and Polish Day behind the Border – with exceptional events in which the WOT Representation Orchestra played a central role.
At 10 a.m., delegations participating in the celebration of the organization laid flowers at the monument of Tadeusz Kościuszko – the hero of 2 nations – in the park of his name. The symbolic motion was a tribute to the common traditions of independency of Poland and the United States. The music sounded here besides – this time more reflective, in a spirit of reflection and historical memory.
Two hours later there was a solemn raising of the flag of the Republic of Poland in downtown Chicago, on the celebrated Daley Plaza. The ceremony, attended by representatives of local authorities, the Polish consulate and Polish organizations, was of an elevated nature. The orchestra performed the Polish anthem causing large emotion among the gathered.
In both of these events, Colonel Łukasz Baranowski was accompanied by the Commander of the US IL NG – General Rodney Boyd.
3 May – orchestra leading the parade
On Saturday 3 May, the WOT Representation Orchestra led the yearly May 3 Constitution Parade, which passed through the streets of downtown Chicago. Her participation was given a uniquely solemn character – soldierry, precise marching and sound strength introduced the atmosphere of national pride.
At the head of the parade, just behind the orchestra, there were banners, scouts, students of Polish schools and members of Polish associations. The full Michigan Avenue street filled with white-red colors and sounds of music, which became the heart of this patriotic manifestation. Despite the American scenery, the spirit of Polishness was present in all gesture, song and step of participants.
4 May – Mass with the orchestra
The culmination of the visit was Sunday Mass on 4 May at the Parish of Saints Cyril and Methodius in Lemont – 1 of the most crucial centers of the spiritual life of Polonia in Chicago. The orchestra accompanied the liturgy by performing a musical setting, including spiritual and patriotic songs. The moved faithful thanked the musicians at the end of the service, many stressed that their presence added celebrations of depth and authentic national spirit.
After the solemn mass, the WOT Representation Orchestra performed during a gala performance at S. Cyril & Methodius School. The hall is full. The audience awarded the musicians a standing ovation. The repertoire was varied – from classical works to patriotic songs to arrangements of amusement music.
Music Voice of Poland Behind the Ocean
The WOT Representation Orchestra visit was more than just a series of performances. It was a surviving lesson in history, culture and community. Thanks to music, the soldiers-musicians conveyed what cannot be expressed in words – the pride of being a Pole, the memory of ancestors, the bond with the country and gratitude to the Polish people, who have cultivated national heritage for generations.
The orchestra left not only an excellent artistic impression, but above all a trace in the hearts of thousands of Poles in Chicago – as ambassadors of Polish culture, military tradition and national pride.
Text: Chor. Marcin Rozwadowski
