In the recent times, we have only very occasionally been visited by young performers of the modern Slovak culture. But this Sunday, December 4, 2016, we were presented with not only lavish gifts from Australian St Nicholas, but also from Slovakian Sv. Mikuláš, in the form of the youth string ensemble „Strieborné struny“ from Bratislava, further enriched by father Martin Šafárik, who as a young cleric, has previously sang for us at the 2008 Slovak Day at the Colo River. Strieborné struny have performed for us their hour long St Nicholas concert in the community hall, which was proceeded by their advent songs during the Sunday mass in our Sts Cyril & Methodius chapel.

Although our first Sundays of the month are usually well attended, this Sunday has exceeded our expectations. The community hall has been packed by some 200 keen spectators awaiting the arrival of St Nicholas as well as the ensuing Strieborné Struny concert. Despite of heightened popularity of St Nicholas, accompanied by a white Angel and a rattling chain wielding red/ black Devil, among all the excited children receiving many exciting presents, the day belonged to Strieborné struny.

Amid a wide repertoire of classics, their performances of Puccini’s „Nessun Dorma“, Schneidera-Trnavský’s „Ave Mária“, Mozart’s „Eine kleine Nachtmusik“ or Suchoň’s „Obrázky zo Slovenska“ have enthralled the audience. Father M. Šafárik has enchanted the spactators even further with his version of Dusík’s song „Najkrajší kút“ and his collection of traditional Slovak carols has awoken that Christmas spirit in every single parson.

At the conclusion of the concert, the Strieborné struny’s musical leader, Mrs Alena Heribanová, has introduced all the ensemble members with a short summary of their respective young musical careers. Straight afterwards, the young local talent, both daughters of Mrs Anka Horníkova, who have earlier promised to St Nicholas to perform some songs after the concert, have swarmed upon the piano. Surprisingly advanced play of either girl has truly pleased St Nicholas and the impressed audience has cheerfully expressed their appreciation. And since the piano has become the centre of attention, the youngsters from Strieborné struny have returned to it to play and sing the national anthem and many improvised Slovak folk songs.

This event has been another wonderful St Nicholas day to remember. We are so grateful to Strieborné Struny for their performances as well all participating community members for their contribution to the preparation and smooth running of this magnificent event.