SLOVENIA'S 5 CORE VALUES

Their common point is definitely music or singing, because they all enjoy it immensely. One of the members is Maruša Kaluža, who has been with them since the very beginning.

"We started as a small church choir, which has only grown over the years. We've become really good friends and we hang out in our free time. We relax and enjoy singing. We are really close and every song we sing has a special meaning for each of us," says Maruša.

Sparkles are very active throughout the year, but most of all in December, when there are lots of events. They also sing throughout the wedding season and perform mainly at church services, confirmations, communions and other events. They have already given a number of solo concerts since their fifth anniversary. 

The most notable was the concert celebrating their 10th anniversary, which took place in October 2023 in the multi-purpose hall in Šmihel near Pivka. The following year they sang again at an event in Šmihel called Something shines in us humans.

They sing a wide variety of music to suit all tastes; acoustic renditions of fun, peaceful and folk songs. They adapt to the event at which they are performing. Occasionally they are accompanied by the guys from the Iskrivega band on accordion, guitar, bass guitar, piano and occasionally on another instrument.

Their uniform are black saloons, a T-shirt and a skirt, each worn in a different shade of pastel.

"We have never charged for our performances. We only get paid for singing at weddings, and even then it's a nominal price to cover transport. Otherwise, we are always happy to respond to invitations. We love to sing and we do it voluntarily; with all our hearts. And if someone does give us some money, we stop for a nice lunch on the way home after the show," explains Maruša.

The group works under the auspices of the Šmihel Cultural Association and also practises in their premises; once a week for about two hours.

In December 2024, the girls also visited the Postojna Retirement Home, where they spent the morning singing songs and chatting with the residents. Everyone was delighted with their visit.

"They laughed, danced and clapped. They were very happy to see the festive atmosphere and events. We will definitely come back to visit again," adds Maruša.                                                                                                                                         

Nuša Želko