Polish Jazz Artists Lead Cultural Exchange and Community Workshops in Dhaka

A vibrant programme of artistic exchange recently took place in Dhaka, Bangladesh, featuring two acclaimed Polish jazz artists—Natalia Kordiak and Grzegorz Karnas—associated with the international Voicingers initiative. The series of events combined community outreach, professional workshops, and live performances, highlighting jazz as a universal language of dialogue.
On 28 April 2026, the visiting artists conducted a special music workshop for 22 young participants from the Korail informal settlement in Dhaka. The session introduced participants to the fundamentals of musical expression through vocal exercises, rhythm-based activities, and improvisation.
Designed as an interactive and inclusive learning experience, the workshop encouraged youth to explore their creativity, build confidence, and engage with music.


The programme continued on 29 April 2026 at Butternote – A Jazz Café in Dhaka, where Polish artists led workshops and collaborative music sessions with local singers and instrumentalists.
Natalia Kordiak and Grzegorz Karnas focused on improvisation in duet and ensemble settings, working on melodic motifs, musical communication, and structuring endings within group performance.





On 30 April 2026, both artists participated in the International Jazz Day celebrations in Dhaka. The evening featured nearly three hours of continuous music, with Polish artists performing alongside local musicians and also supporting their performances on stage.
The event was met with enthusiastic audience response and strong appreciation from the local artistic community, reinforcing the collaborative spirit of the programme.
On 1 May, Natalia Kordiak presented a solo programme. Her performance showcased her distinctive vocal style and interpretative approach, drawing significant audience engagement.


On 2 May, Grzegorz Karnas performed in a quartet setting with the Trio of Imran Ahmed, creating a dynamic fusion of Polish jazz sensibilities and local musical influences. The performance highlighted the adaptability and openness of contemporary jazz as a platform for intercultural expression.

The Polish Institute extends its sincere appreciation to all partners involved in the programme, particularly Butternote – A Jazz Café, as well as to the participating artists, musicians, and youth whose energy and openness made this exchange truly memorable.
Pics by Natalia Kordiak and IG@ intuitive_venture_photo