Pluta, Władysław

Born and lived in Pewel Wielka [ESE of Żywiec]; He was one of the two pipers of "Kapela Byrtków", which in 2014 was one of the few remaining authentic mountaineers’ ensembles of the Beskid Żywiecki; Founded by the legendary self-taught violinist Karol Byrtek (1907-1989), it was frequently awarded, in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s, in prestigious competitions in recognition for its authenticity and accuracy of transmission; The band comprised of Karol himself, his sons Józef (*1933), Władysław (*1936) and Edward (*1944), and Władysław Pluta, who was his brother-in-law; On certain occasions Karol’s daughters, singers Krystyna (*1952) and Władysława (*1956) also performed with the band; His three sons live in Pewel Wielka; Edward is currently [i.e. 2013; ws] considered the most distinguished piper in the region, while his brothers Józef and Władysław are widely known as violin virtuosos; According to Katarzyna & Maciej Szymonowiczowie, Edward Byrtek is, at present [i.e. in 2014; ws], "the only dudziarz who is able to tan a skin in the traditional way. Among others, Zbigniew Wałach of Istebna purchases the skins for his Gajdy from him".