Dudek Big Band / Shakin' Dudi

A musical project created by one of the most renowned Polish bluesmen – Ireneusz "Irek" Dudek. The ensemble stems from the big-band tradition that Dudek has been developing since the early 1980s, presenting a wide audience with rich blues arrangements featuring a horn section and jazz flair. The group stands out for its combination of a classic big-band sound with powerful, expressive blues and jazz, turning their live shows into grand musical spectacles. For years, critics have emphasized that Dudek's big-band projects brought a breath of "the big wide world" to the Polish blues scene, proving that blues can thrive in elaborate arrangements.

One of the milestones in the band's history was the album No.1, released in 1986, featuring tracks that remain in their repertoire to this day. The ensemble collaborates with outstanding jazz and blues musicians, making their sound not only high-energy but also technically flawless. Special guests for the festival concert at NOSPR will include Henryk Gembalski, Krzysztof Popek, Apostolis Anthimos, and Krzysztof Głuch.

The band’s performances are known for their intense expression, sense of fun, and virtuosity, drawing in both blues enthusiasts and the general public. However, Irek Dudek's most popular project was undoubtedly Shakin' Dudi, whose hits were once sung by the entire country. To satisfy fans of all his musical alter egos, Irek will also perform these iconic songs, backed by the musicians he plays with on a daily basis, including the group's punk guitarist and lyricist, Darek Dusza.