Museum of Ethnography opens exhibition in Warsaw, Poland

Organized by the Liszt Institute in Warsaw and the Museum of Ethnography in Budapest, an exhibition opened on May 18, 2024, as part of the jubilee edition of the Warsaw Museum Night 2024. Titled "Gypsy music from Ferenc Liszt to the Hungarikums” the exhibition celebrates the influence of Gypsy music in Hungary and International Roma Day. The exhibition was made possible with the support of the Petőfi Cultural Program.

The starting point of the exhibition is Ferenc Liszt's book "The Gipsies and their Music in Hungary," published in 1861. The endpoint is the elevation of Gypsy music to the status of Hungarikum, specifically the performances of Gypsy musicians playing the verbunkos and csárdás, which, through the 100-Member Gypsy Orchestra, have become part of Hungary's national heritage.

The exhibition showcases the history of Gypsy bands and famous musicians up to the present day, from village bands to ensembles that have toured abroad, and highlights the formation of large orchestras. It illustrates the unifying role of Gypsy music and discusses how musicians form a close-knit occupational group. Visitors will also learn about the world of Gypsy balls and the unique customs developed by these musicians.

The exhibition is located at: Liszt Institute - Hungarian Cultural Center Warsaw ul. Moniuszki 10.