Beethoven's “Eroica” at the Romanian Athenaeum

The evening's programme is a special one, comprising renowned works from the classical repertoire, suitable both for devoted music lovers and for those who wish to discover the beauty of classical music: the concert will begin with “Variations on a Theme by Haydn” by Johannes Brahms, an orchestral masterpiece that astonishes with its complexity and beauty. The work is based on a theme attributed to Haydn and developed in eight variations full of inventiveness and brilliance.

This is followed by a piece of extraordinary virtuosity, “Violin Concerto No. 1” by Henryk Wieniawski. Performed by the talented violinist Rok Zaletel Černoš, this work offers a perfect combination of passion, flawless technique and enchanting melodies, for both the hearts and the minds of the listeners.

The evening will close in style with the grandiose “Eroica” by Ludwig van Beethoven. This revolutionary symphony, originally dedicated to Napoleon Bonaparte as a symbol of the revolutionary ideals of liberty and equality (Beethoven withdrew the dedication after Napoleon proclaimed himself emperor, deeply disappointing the composer), is a profound and complex emotional exploration of heroism and humanity. The work is considered one of the greatest achievements of classical music, redefining the symphony through its innovative structure and expressive power.

Don't miss this opportunity to enjoy a magical Wednesday evening at the Athenaeum, where young Slovenian musicians will bring these timeless masterpieces to life under the inspired guidance of conductor Živa Ploj Peršuh. Whether you are a passionate music lover or simply wish to get closer to the wonderful world of classical music, this concert promises not to disappoint.

In August, the “Vara Magică” concerts will continue with the Romanian Youth Orchestra, conducted by Cristian Mandeal, on 14 August, with the “Vară Magică” International Festival concluding on Wednesday 21 August with a concert by the Sinfonietta Orchestra, conductor and soloist: violinist Alexander Sitkovetsky.

Biographies

Živa Ploj Peršuh is the founder and artistic director of the Slovenian Youth Orchestra, one of the most highly regarded and influential conductors of her generation.

Ploj Peršuh is known for her energetic and expressive style, bringing new perspectives to the interpretation of the classical repertoire.

She is also a fervent supporter of contemporary music and young talent, actively involved in educational and mentoring projects.

In 2022, Živa founded the artistic and humanitarian project “Music for the Future”, which brought together talented young musicians from Ukraine alongside members of the Slovenian Youth Orchestra. The project aimed to help through music and contributed to the evacuation and integration of 142 young Ukrainian musicians who moved to Ljubljana and became integrated into life in Slovenia.

Rok Zaletel Černoš is a Slovenian violinist renowned for his virtuosity and interpretative sensitivity. Born into a family of musicians, he began studying the violin at a very young age, quickly demonstrating exceptional talent.

He began making his way in music at the age of six and trained at the Conservatory of Music and Ballet in Ljubljana. At 16 he was admitted to the Academy of Music, where his mentor was Vasilij Meljnikov.

Rok is the only Slovenian violinist to have taken part in prestigious music competitions worldwide, such as the “P.I. Tchaikovsky” competition, considered the pinnacle of classical music.

Recently, he was the first Slovenian violinist and the only European to take part in the “Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky” Music Olympiad in Moscow, where he was ranked among the twenty-five selected musicians who had the honour of playing before a merciless jury.