The Stanisław Hadyna Song and Dance Ensemble, Śląsk, is one of Poland’s largest folk ensembles, founded on 1 July 1953 by composer Stanisław Hadyna and choreographer Elwira Kamińska. Based at the palace in Koszęcin, the ensemble was established as Poland’s second state folk group after Mazowsze. It initially focused on Silesian folklore, presenting songs and dances from Upper Silesia, the Cieszyn region, and the Beskids, later expanding its repertoire to include traditions from across Poland as well as opera, oratorio, and sacred music. Comprising a choir, ballet, and orchestra, Śląsk has performed thousands of concerts worldwide and visited more than 45 countries. The ensemble has released numerous recordings, including the award-winning Pieśni Nowoczesne (2021) with Polish rapper Miuosh.
