Polish municipal spending on musical performances

Public records from the Central Register of Contracts have disclosed the fees paid by various Polish municipalities for musical performances in 2026. Initial reports identified specific payments to singer Konrad Skolimowski, known as Skolim, including 55,000 PLN from the Płock District Starosty, 60,000 PLN from the Sochaczew municipality, and approximately 65,000 PLN from Nowe Skalmierzyce. Skolim’s manager stated that compensation varies based on event nature and conditions.

Subsequent disclosures expanded the scope of spending, showing that other artists also command high fees. The group Modelki reportedly earned between 65,000 PLN and nearly 90,000 PLN, while Kayah and Agnieszka Chylińska received 108,000 PLN and 100,000 PLN respectively.

These expenditures have drawn criticism from Paweł Kamiński, president of the Association of Directors of Local Government Cultural Institutions. He argued that such spending prioritizes “games and shows” over genuine cultural development or resident education.