Zadar is back in the cultural spotlight! The 65th Jubilee St. Donatus Music Evenings have opened, an event that is not just a concert but a true explosion of artistic excellence and tradition. The HRT Symphony Orchestra, with the guest appearance of the Zadar Chamber Orchestra and under the baton of maestro Ivan Repušić, kicked off the festival that celebrates not only music but also women in the arts. Yes, you read that right – this year’s festival theme is women in musical art, and many ensembles led by women give this event a special stamp.
The festival began with a homage to the Zadar conductor, composer, and pedagogue Šime Dešpalj, with a performance of his composition “Mobe.” Following that, the audience enjoyed Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Scheherazade” and Maurice Ravel’s “Bolero,” performed by the Zadar dance ensemble Forum. This blend of tradition, spirituality, and contemporary musical excellence promises unforgettable performances by top domestic and international artists until August 6.
Culture Minister Nina Obuljen Koržinek highlighted the festival’s importance as a valuable national cultural tradition and a true gift to the people of Zadar, while artistic director Ivana Kuljerić emphasized that the Music Evenings are not just a cultural event but a sound postcard of the city and an indispensable part of Zadar’s summer. The programs take place at impressive locations such as the Church of St. Donatus, the Providur’s Palace, the atrium of the Church of St. Nicholas, the Church of St. Krševan, and the park of the Institute of Historical Sciences HAZU.
This festival proves that Zadar not only preserves its rich musical tradition but is also a place where great world careers are born. The love of the Dešpalj family for music gave birth to an excellent festival that still gathers top-quality artists today. If you love music, art, and a good time, the St. Donatus Music Evenings are a place you must not miss. And if you’ve already been, you know this is an event to remember and talk about. So, what are you waiting for? Maybe it’s time for you to leave your mark in Zadar this summer! Or at least drop a comment and tell us your favorite performance so far!
Zadar is ready, are you?
