Zagreb Classic Announces Longest Edition Yet with Nine Free Concerts and New Children's Program

Zagreb will transform into an open-air stage this summer as the ninth edition of Zagreb Classic unfolds from June 19 to July 3. The festival promises its longest run yet, featuring nine free concerts and a dedicated children's program, marking a significant cultural offering for the city.

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We are starting on June 19 and lasting until July 3. This is actually the longest Zagreb Classic since its beginnings. We will have as many as nine concerts and one special children's program on a special stage and in another square.

The event, presented by Zagreb Mayor Tomislav Tomašević and Zagreb Tourist Board Director Martina Bienenfeld, will host a lineup of acclaimed domestic and international artists. Key performances will include the Croatian National Theatre Orchestra and Choir, the HRT Symphony Orchestra, and the ensemble from the Komedija Theatre. Notably, the Zagreb Philharmonic will play a central role, performing in four concerts throughout the festival.

Filip Fak, director of the Zagreb Philharmonic, highlighted the orchestra's expanded presence, stating, "The Zagreb Philharmonic is, in a way, the resident ensemble of the festival this year, as we are performing on four concert evenings for the first time. This is a kind of recognition, given that we are the most Zagreb-based and most classical among the City of Zagreb's ensembles." He emphasized the festival's success in drawing broad audiences to classical music outside traditional concert halls.

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What I am particularly pleased about, alongside the truly great and special soloists at our concerts, is that we will have the opportunity to watch and listen to performances by our celebrated orchestras and choirs.

A special focus this year is the celebration of World Music Day on June 21. For the first time, Zagreb Classic will feature a second venue, Zrinjevac, hosting an early evening concert for children. This performance will include an Italian ensemble playing works by composers like Mozart, Strauss, and Tchaikovsky, offering young attendees a chance to interact with musicians and try instruments after the show. The main festival stage will also host a performance on the same day.

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The Zagreb Philharmonic is, in a way, the resident ensemble of the festival this year, as we are performing on four concert evenings for the first time. This is a kind of recognition, given that we are the most Zagreb-based and most classical among the City of Zagreb's ensembles.