Classical works performed by Kordić and Phillips at the Osor Music Evenings

The 51st edition of the Osor Music Evenings festival continued with a performance featuring Croatian mezzo-soprano Jelena Kordić and American soprano Heather Phillips, held in the former cathedral in Osor. The concert took place amid ongoing adjustments to the festival's lineup, following earlier changes that saw pianist Mia Pečnik replace Aleksandra Gadjieva. This latest shift occurred after bass singer Ante Jerkunica was unable to attend, leading to a revised program centered around Kordić’s solo performance, complemented by Phillips in both solo and duet segments. Accompanying them on piano was Canadian pianist Laurent Philippe. The concert, lasting approximately 80 minutes, included works by composers such as Johannes Brahms, Richard Strauss, Jules Massenet, Georges Bizet, Giacomo Puccini, and Giuseppe Verdi. Additional pieces were drawn from the repertoire of Offenbach, alongside compositions by Croatian composers Ivo Parać and Jakov Gotovac. A memorial to Gotovac stands near the Osor church, while the music of Parać was also featured prominently in the evening’s program. The performance took place in the historic setting of the former cathedral, adding a unique atmosphere to the musical presentation. The festival has been adjusting its schedule throughout the week, with Tuesday’s program including a guest appearance by the Berliner Nonett ensemble. In addition, a commissioned premiere titled “Igra mora i Osora” by Veronika Reutz Drobnić will be performed later in the festival’s run. These additions reflect the organizers' efforts to maintain a dynamic and varied program despite logistical challenges faced by some performers. Jelena Kordić, a well-known figure in Croatia’s classical music scene, delivered a solo set that highlighted her vocal range and interpretive skills. Her performance was interspersed with contributions from Heather Phillips, whose presence added international flair to the evening. The collaboration between the two singers was supported by Laurent Philippe, whose piano accompaniment was noted for its precision and sensitivity. The selection of pieces spanned a broad spectrum of classical repertoire, offering audiences a diverse listening experience. The Osor Music Evenings festival, which began in 1972, has become one of the most respected cultural events in Croatia. Held annually in the Istrian town of Osor, the festival attracts musicians and audiences from across Europe and beyond. The choice of venue, the former cathedral, adds historical resonance to each performance, reinforcing the connection between music and heritage. The inclusion of Croatian composers in the program underscores the festival’s commitment to promoting local talent alongside international artists. The performance by Kordić and Phillips marked a continuation of the festival’s tradition of showcasing high-caliber performances in a unique setting. Despite the last-minute changes to the lineup, the concert proceeded smoothly, with the audience responding enthusiastically to the music presented. The adaptation of the program allowed for a focused exploration of the vocalists’ abilities, ensuring that the evening remained cohesive and artistically fulfilling. The festival continues through the coming days, with further performances scheduled. Among these is the anticipated premiere of “Igra mora i Osora,” composed specifically for the festival. This piece represents another example of the Osor Music Evenings’ dedication to commissioning new works, ensuring that the event remains relevant and forward-looking in the world of classical music.