Marta and Krzysztof Butryn’s story began in an unlikely setting – a retake of a philosophy of culture exam. It was there that their paths crossed, and a connection sparked that would forever intertwine their lives. United by a deep passion for traditional culture, they embarked on a journey together, both as a couple and as scholars of folklore and ethnology. Their shared passion for music and singing further enriched their bond, and their lives were blessed with the arrival of three wonderful children: Aleksandra, Anna Antonina, and Marianna Helena
Deeply passionate about their ancestral lands of Roztocze and Lemkivshchyna, Marta and Krzysztof Butryn established the Stara Droga Foundation. Dedicated to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Central and Eastern Europe, with a particular focus on the Polish-Ukrainian and Polish-Slovak border regions. They are passionate about preserving traditional culture, and their work reflects this through educational programes, community engagement activities, artistic endeavours, and publications.
She has dedicated her life to studying, performing, and safeguarding the rich traditions of Poland’s Roztocze and Lemko regions. Her passion for these areas is evident not only in her scholarly pursuits but also in her captivating musical performances.. Graban-Butryn’s dedication to traditional culture is deeply rooted in experience. For many years, she has actively participated in field expeditions and musical projects alongside local musicians and singers. Her involvement with groups like the Biłgoraj Suka School, Butryn Band, Lemko Village Band “Uherec,” and the Kolberg Academy has provided her with a wealth of firsthand knowledge about the region’s unique musical styles and cultural practices. Graban-Butryn’s expertise extends beyond performance. She is also a published author, having contributed insightful articles exploring the intricacies of Lemko family rituals. Furthermore, her commitment to preserving cultural heritage led her to spearhead the Lemko Archive project. Graban-Butryn’s impact goes beyond academia and into the heart of the community. She demonstrates exceptional talent as an organiser and socio-cultura animator, bringing people together through large-scale international events like the Jagiellonian Fair in Lublin and the Festival Of TRaditional Music “Na Rozstaju Dróg” / “Music at the Crossroads.” At the same time, she fosters cultural engagement at the local level through workshops and gatherings for local residents. Her work as an instructor at a district cultural centres further exemplifies her commitment to fostering appreciation and understanding within the community. Graban-Butryn’s tireless efforts haven’t gone unnoticed. She has been the recipient of prestigious awards, including the Jubilee Award of the President of the City of Lublin and the Cultural Award of the Lublin Province. These accolades acknowledge her exceptional contributions to safeguarding the region’s cultural heritage.
Krzysztof Butryn is a cultural scholar who wears many hats: ethnomusicologist, folklorist, and musician. A skilled violinist and drummer (which he learned from village masters: Stanisław Głaz and Bronisław Bida , he also excels at the unique Biłgoraj suka, an instrument he learned from his father, Zbigniew. Since 2006, he’s been a professional member of Folk Artists’ Association
Butryn’s passion for traditional music extends beyond performance. He founded and leads the informative portals Kulturaludowa.pl and Muzykatradycyjna.pl. He actively participates in, initiates, and organises artistic projects like the Kolberg Academy and the Festival of Traditional Music “Na rozstajnych drogach”/ Music at the Crossroads. A dedicated educator, Butryn established the Biłgoraj Suka School, ensuring the instrument’s legacy. He also performs with his family band, the Butryn Band. His achievements have been recognised with a scholarship from the Minister of Culture and National Heritage. In 2018, he received the Decoration of Honor “Meritorious for Polish Culture”.
Photo: Aleksander Butryn
