University of Gdynia choir showcases Polish maritime academia and culture at Expo 2025 Osaka
The Academic Choir of the Gdynia Maritime University represented Poland at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai – the world’s largest economic and cultural exhibition. Between 26 September and 1 October, the ensemble gave six concerts, culminating in the joint performance of the Polish and Japanese national anthems during Poland’s National Day at Expo.
In brief
The Academic Choir of Gdynia Maritime University performed six times at the World Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, from 26 September to 1 October. The ensemble conducted by Dr Karol Hilla presented hits of Polish film music from 1933 to 2023, and during Poland's National Day on 1 October performed the national anthems of Poland and Japan. The trip was financed by the Culture Promotion Fund, with support from the Port of Gdynia, the Port of Gdańsk, Polskie Linie Oceaniczne and the company ENAMOR. Rector Professor Adam Weintrit stressed his pride in the choir's presence in Osaka.
Led by Dr. Karol Hilla, the choir presented newly arranged works from Polish film music spanning 1933–2023, with highlights including Już nie zapomnisz mnie, The River of Dreams, and Two Hearts. Special arrangements were prepared by acclaimed Polish composers Anna Rocławska-Musiałczyk and Mikołaj Gąsiewski. The standout piece, Jeszcze raz from Juliusz Machulski’s film Vabank, received particular acclaim from Japanese and international audiences.
Rector Prof. Adam Weintrit emphasized the significance of the event: “Our students worked tremendously hard to prepare. Performing at such a renowned global forum is both a unique artistic experience and an opportunity to promote Polish maritime education and culture worldwide.”
The participation of the Academic Choir was supported by the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage, with additional sponsorship from leading maritime industry stakeholders including the Port of Gdynia, the Port of Gdańsk, Polish Ocean Lines, and ENAMOR Sp. z o.o. The trip was carried out in partnership with the Polish-Japanese Cultural Exchange Society.
Expo 2025 Osaka, running until October 2025, is expected to attract 28 million visitors. The choir’s performances not only underscored Poland’s cultural presence in Japan but also highlighted the role of Gdynia – a city deeply connected to the sea – as a hub for maritime education and international cooperation.
Source: Gazeta Morska · Compiled by: Kamil Kusier
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