Sinaia, 8th August 2024 – In the heart of the picturesque Carpathian Mountains, the Slovenian Youth Orchestra (SMO) captivated the audience with a magical performance at the International Festival “Enescu and the Music of the World” in the Casino Hall in Sinaia. Led by conductor Živa Ploj Peršuh and featuring the talented young violinist Rok Zaletel Černoš, the evening celebrated musical excellence and cultural exchange.

The Casino Hall, a historic venue, provided the perfect backdrop for this prestigious festival, which honours youth orchestras from around the world. On August 8th, SMO presented a diverse programme, including Johannes Brahms’ Variations on a Theme by Haydn Slavko Osterc’s deeply moving Religioso , Tchaikovsky’s virtuosic Violin Concerto, and the revolutionary Eroica Symphony by Ludwig van Beethoven.

The orchestra’s performance was a masterful display of artistry, showcasing their skill in interpreting diverse styles with finesse and passion. Rok Zaletel Černoš, known for his remarkable technique and emotional depth, enchanted the audience with his interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s concerto, while Živa Ploj Peršuh’s precise and expressive conducting brought a full palette of colours to the orchestral performance.

The International Festival “Enescu and the Music of the World,” running from August 2 to August 25, features 21 concerts across various venues in Sinaia, including the George Enescu Memorial House and Ştirbei Park. This festival not only highlights the talents of young musicians but also fosters lively cultural exchange, connecting artistic traditions from around the world. SMO’s performance was met with enthusiasm and admiration, reflecting the festival’s commitment to celebrating emerging musical talent.

By participating, SMO not only showcased Slovenian musical talent but also strengthened cultural ties between Slovenia and Romania. Music, as a universal language, plays a key role in building bridges and promoting international friendships, and this performance was a shining example of that.

J. Brahms: Variations on a Theme by Haydn in B-flat major, op. 56a
S. Osterc: Religioso from Suite for Orchestra
P. I. Tchaikovsky: Violin Concerto in D major, op. 35
L. van Beethoven: Symphony No 3 in E flat major, op. 55, "Eroica"

The Slovenian Youth Orchestra
Rok Zaletel Černoš – soloist
Živa Ploj Peršuh – conductor