Světlušky (pronounced svyet-loosh-kee) is a youth ensemble that was formed in Cedar Rapids in 2007 to perform Czech, Moravian, and Slovak instrumental folk music, folk songs, and folk dances. The focus is on the older folk culture before the advent of modern brass bands. This ensemble is independent of any other local Czech organization, and practices in its own private dance studio.

Světlušky, which translates as “Fireflies”, performs using only live music, no recorded music, just like the groups that currently perform similar material in the old country. Typical instrumentation for the older music is violins, clarinets, viola, and bass. Other instruments frequently included in ensembles in the old country are flutes, penny whistles or recorders, bagpipes, or a hammered dulcimer. Currently, the ensemble’s director assists on the accordion as needed. However, as the group expands, the goal is for youth dancers and singers to be accompanied exclusively by youth musicians.

The ensemble’s current costumes are modeled after a folk group from the town of Klatovy in southern Bohemia, Czech Republic. The girls’ costumes are uniform yet individualized with the use of various colors, ribbons, and lace trims. The boys’ vests are typical of this region, but their white shirts and black pants need to be replaced by folk-style white shirts and yellow knee pants. Once the Bohemian costumes are complete, the goal is to also make Moravian and Slovak costumes, and to perform entire programs from any one of the three regions wearing the appropriate costume. Unfortunately, Světlušky has not been able to establish a women’s sewing circle in Cedar Rapids, so costumes have all been made very slowly by tailor Guenter Merkle and seamstress Karen Lehmann.

As Světlušky expanded in numbers and in skills, the ensemble became a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation in 2009, Svetlusky, Inc. It pays no salaries to anyone, can solicit tax-deductible donations, can apply for grants, and can keep its income non-taxable.

Membership in the ensemble is by invitation only, age 8 through high school, and requires at least two of the following talents: sing, dance, or ability to play an instrument, preferably one of the instruments mentioned above. Being of Czech, Moravian, or Slovak heritage is not required, but being committed to the ensemble is very much required. If you have children or grandchildren interested in being considered for acceptance into the ensemble, you may request an audition by contacting Donna Merkle at 319-390-3742. Donna is willing to help young musicians develop their skills if they are not yet quite ready.

Světlušky will continue to improve and expand, which hopefully will continue to add value to the Czech community of Cedar Rapids

Please help support

Světlušky

(Fireflies)

the Czech youth ensemble in Cedar Rapids

If you donated last year, please consider donating again this year, because the ensemble’s expenses continue year after year.

Světlušky is now a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation that pays no salaries to anyone. It was incorporated to be able to solicit tax-deductible donations, apply for grants, and to make its income non-taxable.

Světlušky needs small donations of $5, $10, or $20 per person from many individuals. This will show the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that Světlušky has broad public support. Non-profit corporations may make unlimited contributions. Other corporations and individuals may make a large unusual contribution that is not repeated for at least four years. (IRS rules are complicated, as you know from some of your own experiences).

Call (319) 390-3742 for information,

or e-mail muziky@mchsi.com

Send donations to:

Svetlusky, Inc.

7708 Sandhurst  Drive NW

Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52405-5353