Slovak Music Tradition in Chicago: Veselica Youth Slovak Folk Music Band and Cimbalom Project

We are delighted to announce the official relaunch of Veselica’s Folk Music Project, a long-awaited initiative dedicated to rebuilding and nurturing a new generation of young Slovak folk musicians in the Chicago area. The project makes an important step toward restoring the rich musical traditions that have long been at the heart of our Slovak folklore community life.

A Legacy of Slovak Folk Music in Chicago, IL

For more than two decades, the Music Band and Cimbalom Orchestra Veselica has been one of the very few active Slovak folk music ensembles in the United States. Its musicians accompanied dancers and singers not only within the Slovak community of Chicago, but also at broader American festivals, multicultural events, and in collaboration with other ethnic organizations.

Over the years, many dedicated individuals have helped preserve this musical tradition and provided valuable lessons and mentorship to young learners. Special thanks to Adriana Semnicka, Richard Gruszka, Andrew Tokarsz, Peter Paskaj and many more. Their passion and dedication helped maintain authentic folk instrumentation and ensured that Slovak music continued to resonate far from home.

Launching the Youth and Children Slovak Folklore Music Project

Pavel Melich, long-time music director of Veselica’s original folk band, is a leader of the youth and children's music band with the relaunch of this project. His experience, commitment, and deep understanding of Slovak folk traditions have been crucial to this effort.

Today, regular weekly rehearsals include individual lessons as well as group sessions for cimbalom, violin, viola, bass, clarinet, flute, and accordion. Practices follow the school year schedule, allowing consistent participation and steady progress.

Cimbalom Program

A major highlight of this initiative is the introduction of cimbalom lessons, led by master cimbalom player Alex Udvary. With the support of ÚSŽZ, Veselica was able to begin structured lessons and even purchase a used student cimbalom—an important step that allows children to learn on a real instrument and helps preserve the tradition for future generations.

While the program began with just one interested student, the support provided through the project sparked new enthusiasm. This confirms how essential and inspiring this project is for our community’s cultural life.

Thank You to ÚSŽZ

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Úrad pre Slovákov žijúcich v zahraničí (ÚSŽZ) for their financial support, trust, and commitment to helping Slovak culture thrive abroad. Their contribution made it possible to launch this project, attract new students, and create an environment where authentic music traditions can be passed down to the next generation.

Building Toward the Future

We look forward to expanding the ensemble, enriching Veselica’s artistic programs, and offering more young people the chance to experience the beauty of Slovak folk music.

Join Us!

If your child or teen is interested in folk instruments or Slovak music traditions, we would love to welcome them into our program. Whether a beginner or an advanced musician, there is a place for everyone.

👉 For more information or to join, please contact us at info@veselica.org. or veselicasfe@gmail.com

We are excited to continue this beautiful cultural journey—and we invite you to be part of it.