THE MOST AWARDED FEMALE CHOIR IN THE REGION DELIGHTED LOCAL AUDIENCE

On May 26th, in a packed Concert Hall of Banski Dvor, the renowned Women’s Chamber Choir "Banjalučanke" held their first grand gala concert, confirming once again their reputation as the most awarded female choir in the region.

PHOTO: Borislav Brezo

Under the artistic direction of conductor Mladen Matović, the ensemble delivered a highly refined and emotionally powerful performance that was met with prolonged applause and standing ovations after nearly every piece.

The concert was meticulously prepared over a six-month period and offered a retrospective program showcasing highlights from the choir’s repertoire over the past decade. It featured a rich diversity of musical styles and genres, a hallmark of the "Banjalučanke" that has made them recognizable on stages throughout the region and around the world.

The concert was structured into three parts.

The first segment featured a selection of demanding a cappella compositions from the world of classical music. In the second part, the choir presented specially arranged pieces from the rich tradition of folk music, carefully stylized for choral performance.

The third and final part of the evening took the audience on a musical time journey through choral renditions of global pop, rock, and film music hits, adding a popular flair to the already dynamic program.

Solo performances were delivered by choir members Žaklina Gligorić, Jelena Vulin, Marija Dulić Popović, Jelena Dejanović, Vesna Trubić, and Neđica Mijajlović, captivating the audience with their vocal skill and expression.

The performance was further enriched by the string quartet “Paladio,” as well as guest performers DUO AKORDIANO, featuring Sanja Čolić Zelić (piano) and Darko Ružičić (accordion). Longtime ensemble pianist Mladen Janković also performed, alongside percussionists Milan Kosić and Andrej Petković.

The evening was a true celebration of music and artistry, confirming once again why “Banjalučanke” hold a distinguished place in the cultural landscape of the region.