More Than a Music School.
A Place Where Every Child Belongs.
Founded in 2016, Polish Centre for Music Education CIO (known locally as Polish Music Centre) is a community charity based in Peterborough, dedicated to helping children and young people build confidence, improve wellbeing and realise their potential through music, creativity and trusted relationships.
What began as a music education programme and teacher association for the local Polish community has grown into an inclusive organisation welcoming children and families from all backgrounds. Today, we bring children, young people and families together through music and creativity, creating opportunities to build confidence, develop lifelong skills, form meaningful friendships and feel part of a supportive community.
Over the years, we have learned that many children need more than opportunities to learn—they need somewhere they feel safe, valued and able to be themselves. Everything we do is designed to create that sense of belonging, because we know children thrive when they feel connected to others and confident in who they are.
We believe music has the power to change lives. It is about much more than learning an instrument—it builds confidence, strengthens wellbeing, encourages self-expression and helps children develop a lasting sense of belonging.
As we begin an exciting new chapter at The Stork's Centre, we are creating a welcoming community hub where children and families can learn, create, perform and connect in a safe, supportive and inclusive environment.
OUR MISSION
We believe every child deserves the opportunity to feel confident, valued and connected.
Through music, creativity and community, we create opportunities for children and young people to discover their talents, develop resilience and build meaningful relationships that last far beyond the classroom.
Because when children feel safe, connected and valued, they are able to thrive.
OUR VISION
We believe every child deserves the opportunity to grow up feeling confident, connected and proud of who they are.
Our vision is a Peterborough where every child, regardless of their background, has access to creativity, positive relationships and a community where every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Our Impact
We measure success not only by musical achievement, but by the difference we make in children's lives.
Every year we see children:
❤️ grow in confidence
🎵 discover new talents
🤝 build lasting friendships
🌍 connect across cultures
✨ perform with pride
🏡 become active members of their community
OUR COMMUNITY
Each year, around 150+ children and young people take part in our programmes.
Our community brings together children and families from many different cultures, languages and backgrounds, reflecting the rich diversity of Peterborough.
Many of the families we support are growing up between cultures and languages, and our programmes provide opportunities to build friendships, celebrate identity and strengthen connections within the wider community.
Whether joining us for their very first lesson or performing on stage, every child is encouraged to grow, express themselves and become part of a supportive community.
OUR PROGRAMMES
We provide a wide range of creative opportunities for children and young people of all ages and abilities.
🎹 Individual Music Lessons
One-to-one tuition tailored to every child's age, experience and goals.
Available instruments include:
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Piano
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Violin
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Guitar
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Ukulele
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Drums
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Recorder
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Singing
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Music Theory
👥 Group Music Classes
Fun and engaging sessions that encourage children to learn together, build confidence and develop teamwork through music.
🎭 Musical Theatre
Creative projects where children develop acting, singing and performance skills while building confidence, friendships and self-expression.
🎤 Choir & Vocal Groups
Helping young people develop their voices while experiencing the joy of performing together.
🎼 ABRSM Exam Preparation
Professional support for students preparing for graded music examinations.
🎶 Performances & Concerts
Throughout the year, children have opportunities to perform in concerts, showcases and community events, celebrating their achievements with family and friends.
❤️ Community Programmes
Creative workshops, wellbeing activities, family events and community projects that bring people together through music, culture and shared experiences.
WHY FAMILIES TRUST US
Families choose Polish Music Centre because we offer much more than music lessons.
✔ Experienced, caring tutors who understand every child's individual journey.
✔ Individual support for every child
✔ A welcoming and inclusive environment
✔ Opportunities to perform and grow in confidence
✔ Strong community values
✔ A place where children build friendships and discover their potential
✔ A community where children feel safe, supported and inspired to be themselves.
THE STORK'S CENTRE
The Stork's Centre represents the next chapter in our journey. More than a community venue, it will be a welcoming home where children, young people and families can learn, create, perform and connect throughout the year. Together, we are creating a place where creativity flourishes, friendships grow and every child has the opportunity to thrive.
JOIN OUR COMMUNITY
Whether your child is picking up an instrument for the first time or looking to develop their talents further, we'd love to welcome you.
Discover the joy of music, creativity and community with us.
Meet our Team
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
Meet Our Team! We are a diverse group of music profesionals each bringing unique talents and perspectives to the Polish Music Centre. From seasoned musicians dedicated educators, our team is committed to fostering a love for Polish music and culture. Together, we work to inspire and engage our community through various programs and.
CEO
Vocal Coach
Martyna Baxter
An experienced coordinator of social, educational and cultural projects within the Polish community in the United Kingdom. She specialises in managing initiatives funded by public bodies (including Arts Council England and the National Lottery). She has experience working with organisations such as The King’s Fund and Nene Park Trust.
She co-creates projects such as Polish Music Centre in Peterborough, the Aplauz Festival and The Culture Door. She combines strong managerial expertise with a passion for community-focused work.
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
Piano, Ukulele, Guitar
Joanna
Bernat
Graduated from the National Music School by the name of Wojciech Kilar in Dzierzoniów, Poland.
A multi-instrumentalist, composer, author of many publications for children (poems, short stories, fairy-tales, and songs) as well as books for music teachers and parents.
She frequently co-operates with many leading publishing houses in Poland.
She has had over 15 years of teaching experience.
Electric Guitar
Michał Iwanicki
I am a passionate guitarist with many years of experience. Music has been a part of my life since secondary school, when I formed a rock band with friends and decided to learn how to play the guitar.
I currently play in a rock band with which we regularly perform at concerts in nearby towns and across the region. I also teach guitar, sharing my knowledge and passion with others. I believe the best results come from learning through enjoyment, which is why my lessons are energetic and the repertoire is tailored to each student’s musical tastes.
You’re very welcome to join my lessons – together we’ll achieve your musical goals!
Electric Guitar
Group sessions tutor
Jan Bagniewski
Jan has been playing guitar for over 40 years and has been passionate about music since childhood. His musical journey began when he was inspired by his older brother’s guitar playing, sparking a lifelong love of music.
Over the years, Jan has performed in numerous bands, playing a wide range of genres including popular music, reggae and rock. He currently plays guitar with the Peterborough-based band The Outstanders, bringing decades of live performance experience to his teaching. Known for his patience and encouraging approach, Jan believes that anyone can learn to play with the right support and motivation. His lessons focus on building confidence, developing practical skills and, most importantly, enjoying the process of making music. Whether you are a complete beginner or looking to develop your existing skills, Jan welcomes students of all ages and abilities to join him on their musical journey.
Piano
Spalding
Julia Siekierzyńska
Julia is a graduate of the Polish Music Centre
Vocal Coach
Peterborough
Spalding
Natalia
Teter
She has been singing from a very young age – the stage is her second home. A graduate of the Music School in Sandomierz, she has extensive stage experience gained through numerous concerts, festivals and vocal competitions in Poland, where she has been recognised and awarded many times.
She has performed both in Poland and in the United Kingdom. In her lessons, she focuses on developing vocal technique, interpretation, and confidence on stage.
Flute
Kamila
Sietnik
A graduate of the Grażyna Bacewicz State Music School (First Degree) in Nowa Sól, where she studied the transverse flute. For four years, she performed with the Youth Brass Band “Elektryk” in Nowa Sól, taking part in numerous competitions and festivals both in Poland and abroad.
Professionally, she is a journalist and a teacher of Polish language, early years education, and preschool education. She is also a graduate of the University of Zielona Góra.
Classical guitar, ukulele,
piano, recorder,
music theory
Karolina Chlumova
Karolina studied Music Theory and Classical Guitar at the Teplice Conservatory in the Czech Republic. She is a passionate teacher with over 15 years of experience. As a young student, she took part in guitar competitions and workshops led by renowned guitarists.
She has a talent for introducing students to classical music in a fun, engaging and accessible way.
Piano
Karolina
Salao
After more than 15 years of musical education, Karolina obtained a Master’s degree from the Fryderyk Chopin University of Music in Warsaw (Białystok branch), specialising in teaching and performance. She went on to perform on numerous large cruise ships.
More recently, she has transitioned from life as a travelling musician to teaching music in London, Stevenage, and most recently in Peterborough.
Violin
Katarzyna
Liwińska
Kasia, a professional violinist, offers lessons in the instrument closest to her heart. She also teaches piano.
After graduating with a Master’s degree from the Fryderyk Chopin University of Music in Warsaw (Białystok branch), Kasia developed her skills by performing for many years with numerous European orchestras. Over the past 10 years, she has performed on cruise ships, presenting a wide range of music – from classical to pop, rock, and folk.
Violin, Piano,
Vocal coach
Justyna Gałkowska
After completing first- and second-level music schools in the violin class, Justyna went on to complete a Master’s degree at the University of Silesia in Artistic Education in Music, specialising in conducting.
Justyna is a violin and singing teacher with Lincolnshire Music Service, working across a number of primary and secondary schools. She conducts choirs and a string orchestra.
In her free time, she sings in a women’s choir and plays in an orchestra.