1980 Polish Exhibition in Los Angeles

I came across an article that captured my attention while browsing the internet. This article was prepared by Artur Zygmont.

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The Invincible Polish Spirit by Artur Zygmont

1980 Polish Exhibition in Los Angeles

The Invincible Polish Spirit exhibition showcased Polish history and culture in an impressive display at the California Museum of Science and Industry in Los Angeles. From December 7, 1979, to April 27, 1980, visitors experienced the most comprehensive Polish exhibition ever presented in the Western United States. The exhibition involved hundreds of individuals from various backgrounds, including architects, carpenters, electricians, researchers, typists, artists, musicians, consultants, and fundraisers. Notably, the Szarotka retirement home residents contributed by creating Polish Christmas tree ornaments, while school children actively participated in several programs. The exhibition was a remarkable example of the collective efforts and collaboration within the Polish community, known as “Polonia.”

The exhibition showcased the rich history of Poland. It featured a mounted display and various events in the adjacent, such as concerts and lectures at Kinsey Auditorium. The exhibit featured fifteen concerts, spanning various periods of Polish music and showcasing renowned musicians and lecturers. Performances by talented pianists, violinists, and vocalists mesmerized the audience. Two programs were dedicated to Polish Folk Music, featuring captivating dance performances. The exhibition also received support from various contributors and organizations, including Our Lady of the Bright Mount Church and the Polish Students Association at Loyola Marymount University. With an estimated 1,271,700 visitors, the exhibition exemplified the indomitable Polish spirit.

Performers Supporting the Polish Exhibition in Los Angeles 1980

“Performers included pianists Lenee and Martha Bilski; Arthur Dobrucki; Nancy Fierro; Janice Foy (who was also a cello soloist); Roberta Isenberg Goodman; Leonid Hambro; Stefanie Hutchinson, Kristi Lobitz; James Streem and Renee Tuthill. Also appearing were Monika Kozlowska and Arthur Zadinsky, violinists; Carol Lubinski Levin and Florence Korsak, Sopranos; Zofia Kabarowska, alto; Christopher Zebracki, tenor, and Malter Martin, baritone.”

Memory lane. I was there.

Leonid Hambro and Me

I was just a young teen at the time. I recall listening weekly to a program on KPFK, a station on the FM dial in Los Angeles. Pianist Leonid Hambro would share great works “At The Keyboard.” A professor from local CalArts, he was akin to a rock star to me, but in the classical piano world. So playing on the same stage and program with Mr. Hambro at this Polish Exhibition event was quite a thrill. I still remember his playing of several Chopin Mazurkas and stories of his growing up and learning about the rhythms of these Polish dances from his mom. My portion of the program was also dedicated to several selections by Chopin. A wonderful rainy Sunday afternoon in Los Angeles it was.

Recordings by Leonid Hambro are available in various media today.

Leonid Hambro Recordings on Amazon

The recap on the web is here: http://www.poles.org/db/Pol_Events/Polish_Spirit/Polish_Spirit.html