Meh na mah: Vihar Ensemble received special recognition on the occasion of the anniversary (Suzy)

The ensemble Vihar from Slovenj Gradc celebrated its round anniversary this year with a special concert featuring musical guests connected through shared stories and collaborations. Mayor Tilen Klugler presented them with a special recognition for their contribution to cultural life in Slovenia's oldest Carinthian city and for preserving traditional folk music. Belokranjska Urška Klobučar and Dolenjec Peter Fink also arrived in Carinthia for the event. Twenty years of creation, performances, and preservation of Slovenian folk music mark a significant milestone for Vihar, which has left a lasting imprint on the domestic music scene. Many have been particularly impressed by singer Klara Lorger, who comes from the Savinja Valley. With her exceptional voice, she has already captivated many, including the jury of the Ptuj Festival, which awarded her the Korenova plaque. On stage, Vihar joined forces with ensembles such as Peter Fink, Zeme, and Rosa, as well as the group Zaka', and artists Brane Klavžar and Romana Cafuta, authors of the waltz "Take Time for Dreams," created back in 2006. Members of Vihar, Peter and Tomaž Prevorčič, Klara Lorger, and Andrej Cmok, re-recorded and performed the piece again on the square in the center of Slovenj Gradc during the anniversary celebration. Alongside Klara, members of the same family took the stage, including her partner Drago Jambrek and daughter Glorija, resulting in three family members performing together on stage. They were joined by numerous folklore enthusiasts and fans who listened to their songs, which have delighted the local community for two decades. The evening was enriched by carefully selected guest performers. "These are musicians we've collaborated with throughout all these years. Among them is Urška Klobučar, singer of the Peter Fink ensemble, and especially notable is the story of the Lorgers-Jambreks family. Klara’s life partner is Drago Jambrek, who isn't part of the Zaka' group, but her daughter Glorija already sings excellently too. Thus, all three family members performed on stage, which was truly a unique experience," said Peter Prevorčič. The anniversary was further enhanced by members of the Valdek folklore group from Završ, who danced to their music. Among these, the aforementioned waltz holds a special place, the very first one ever recorded by the ensemble, which they joyfully refreshed this time around. The anniversary concert was further brightened by the performance of the Zeme ensemble. In the Rosa ensemble, which celebrated 30 years of activity last year, the upcoming growth of singer Arijana Rojko will soon be welcomed. Vihar's journey began in Slovenj Gradc, a town steeped in tradition and culture. Over the past twenty years, the ensemble has become synonymous with the preservation and promotion of Slovenian folk music. Their dedication to maintaining the authenticity of traditional sounds has earned them respect among both locals and visitors alike. The concert was not just a celebration of their achievements but also a reflection of the deep connections within the Slovenian folk music community. The event brought together various generations of musicians and audiences, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with music, dance, and shared memories. The presence of Klara Lorger, whose career has been marked by accolades and recognition, added a touch of prestige to the occasion. Her collaboration with Vihar, as well as her family's involvement, highlighted the personal and artistic bonds that have sustained the ensemble's legacy. The concert also served as a platform for other regional groups to showcase their talents. Folklore groups like Valdek played a crucial role in enhancing the overall experience, blending traditional dances with Vihar's musical repertoire. This synergy between different ensembles underscored the collaborative spirit that defines the Slovenian folk music scene. As the anniversary celebrations drew to a close, the focus shifted to future endeavors. While the immediate highlight was the commemoration of two decades of musical contributions, discussions about upcoming projects and continued support for traditional music were already underway. The recognition received by Vihar emphasized the importance of sustaining cultural heritage, ensuring that the traditions they uphold remain relevant in contemporary society.