Aleksandra Vrebalov and the Award That’s Changing the Game!
Have you heard of Aleksandra Vrebalov? If not, get ready to meet one of the most important figures in contemporary music on the Balkans! At the recent international KotorArt festival, Aleksandra was awarded the prestigious Darinka Matić Marović prize, given for outstanding contribution to the development of artistic music in the former Yugoslav region.
The Woman Who Broke the Male Barriers
This award is named after Darinka Matić Marović, the first female dean of the Faculty of Music Arts in Belgrade and the first female rector of the University of Belgrade. Aleksandra is the third recipient of this prize, and the festival director, pianist Ratimir Martinović, emphasized the importance of continuing the tradition of recognizing women in a profession long dominated by men.
Who is Aleksandra Vrebalov?
Educated in Novi Sad, San Francisco, and the University of Michigan, Aleksandra is the author of 90 musical works – operas, ballets, film music, and contemporary dance. Her compositions have been performed in prestigious halls like Carnegie Hall, Royal Albert Hall, BBC Proms, and Harvard. She is a member of the Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts (SANU) and a recipient of the prestigious Grevmajer award.
Balkan Tradition in a Contemporary Dress
She is especially known for her long-term collaboration with the Kronos Quartet, for which she wrote 17 pieces. In her compositions, she blends elements of Balkan tradition with contemporary musical expression, creating a unique fusion that captivates audiences worldwide.
Why is This Award Important?
In a conversation with music critic Boris Marković, Aleksandra said the award is precious to her because it bears the name of a woman who opened doors for many female artists by example. It symbolizes the position of women artists in the region and the importance of regional cultural connection.
What’s Next?
At the end of the evening, Aleksandra announced new projects, including a composition for a saxophone quartet and a full-length musical piece inspired by Dallas.
Conclusion
If you thought music was a man’s world, Aleksandra Vrebalov is here to prove you wrong! Her career and accolades show that persistence, talent, and courage can break all barriers. Got a favorite musical piece that blew your mind? Or think it’s time more women get the spotlight in music? Drop a comment below – let’s light up this conversation!
