The Nazareth University chamber choir and opera workshop recently took an exciting 10-day tour throughout Poland. We sang, explored and danced our way through three Polish cities and had the time of our lives. As a first-time traveler, this experience taught me several crucial lessons.
1. Keep your mind open to new experiences!
Not only was this my first international travel experience, but it was also my first plane ride! Yes, the eight and a half hour plane ride was my very first time in a plane. Eight and a half hours!
While the ride was daunting and slightly terrifying, I made it through. Fueled by many snacks and countless episodes of The Office, I landed safely in Poland.
One of the highlights of the trip was our visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mine. It was way out of my comfort zone and another slightly terrifying experience, but it was well worth it.
Our group clambered down 55 flights of stairs, where we were led on a tour of a portion of the mine (only 2%!). We saw salt statues, historical artifacts, and an expansive cathedral where we performed “Amazing Grace” for our fellow tourists. While the thought of being almost 450 feet below the ground can make anyone feel claustrophobic, it was an adventure worth having.
2. Music breaks language barriers
As a music therapy major, I wholeheartedly believe that music transcends words. Music is a universal language that we had the privilege of sharing in Poland.
We had two scheduled concerts, the first at the Rzeszów Philharmonic Hall and the second at the Kraków Academy of Music, both beautiful venues. I had the pleasure of performing as both a soloist and a choir member in these spaces, which held fantastic acoustics.
While most people in Poland understand and speak English to some degree, I was nervous that our program would not be received as positively as we imagined. However, after our first performance we found the audience to be active, engaged, and grateful. They graciously received and returned our music and energy.
In addition to our own performances, we had the opportunity to listen and interact with Kapela Ciupaga, an amazing band that primarily performs folk tunes. The instrumentation consisted of vocals, violins, violas, double bass, percussion, accordion, and guitar. They were highly energetic, interactive and pushed all of us (including the professors!) out of our comfort zones.
They put on a performance for us, taught us dances, and gave us a glimpse of music that we are typically not exposed to. It was a fantastic evening filled with laughter that left everyone groaning about their sore legs the next day.
3. Eat the food!
The Polish people really love their chicken and pierogies. And just potatoes in general. A lot of potatoes. All jokes aside, it was all absolutely delicious!
One of the most memorable meals of the trip was a dish with pork chop covered in mushrooms, cheese, and cranberries, with a side of mashed potatoes, of course. It was so good. We then finished off the night with some heavenly gelato. I tried everything and quickly learned that it was all delicious!
4. Don’t be afraid to make new friendships!
While the adventures throughout Poland were invigorating on their own, the friendships I created truly made them memorable. I was not close friends with anyone on the trip at the beginning, but I quickly formed lasting bonds and cherished memories.
My friends and I traipsed through the whole of Kraków’s Old Town, took a carriage ride, found a chocolate bar, visited castles, sought out the most delicious desserts and most importantly, scootered! We truly took advantage of our time together and made every moment worthwhile.
This trip was truly life changing and informative to my vocal career. I cannot wait for my next opportunity to travel abroad and start my next adventure.
Thanks to Professor Jessica Best, Dr. Sarah Rhee and Dr. Eric Rubinstein. A special thank you to Dr. Zbigniew Granat and his substantial investment of time and dedication that made this trip a success.
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Madeline Downing ’25 is double majoring in music therapy and vocal performance.