Dubrovnik is the only city in this part of Europe and one of the few in the world the orchestral music of which has been played continuously for seven centuries. The Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra continues the long musical tradition that had already developed during the period of the Dubrovnik Republic (1358 – 1808). The first symphonic concert of the Dubrovnik Philharmonic was held on 13 April 1925 and later it operated as the City Orchestra of Dubrovnik, which, in the 1970s, undertook extensive tours in the USA and Canada (over 120 concerts), while in the 1980s it functioned as the Festival Orchestra. In 1992, the orchestra changed its name to its current name for the last time. Today, it is an important part of Croatia’s cultural heritage, performing regularly in the Rector’s Palace and churches, as well as in major concert halls around the world. It has been awarded the prestigious Milka Trnina Award for outstanding artistic achievements, the City of Dubrovnik Award, the Award for Contribution to the Reputation and Promotion of the Dubrovnik-Neretva County in the Country and Abroad, as well as the Orlando Grand Prix at the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, presented by Croatian Radio and Television (HRT). It is important to mention the active role and involvement of the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra during the Homeland War. As a cultural institution, it organizes several festivals throughout the concert season, preserves musical heritage and promotes Croatian composers in Dubrovnik and abroad. It pays special attention to the education and development of young musicians.
The 100th anniversary of the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra is an excellent occasion to remember the people who contributed to the development of the orchestra and to celebrate this milestone with due honor. In the anniversary year, the audience can look forward to the Star Cycle, featuring renowned soloists and conductors. The program includes a concert on the exact day of the 100th anniversary, a rich program throughout the year, a celebratory concert in Zagreb and performances abroad.
The visual identity of the anniversary combines the number 100 with the orchestra’s existing identity, where the letter “D” – a recognizable symbol and the initial letter of Dubrovnik – becomes a sound wave, symbolizing music traveling toward the audience. The color scheme of this year’s identity places the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra in a contemporary context, moving away from traditional perceptions of an orchestra.
Denis Ajduković, academic musician
Renata Roman Dobroslavić, mag. rel. publ.
