With immense gratitude, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Ambassador Davor Vidis, the Ambassador of the Republic of Croatia in Ireland, and Merica Vidis for their invitation to an unforgettable evening of baroque music, beautifully organized by the Croatian Embassy. The event showcased a mesmerizing performance by some of the finest talents in baroque music, held in the historic St. Mary’s Church in Dublin, where the 1827 architecture and remarkable acoustics enriched each note and heightened the experience.
The evening began with Violinist Laura Vadjon, Croatia’s pioneering baroque violinist. As one of the initiators of the early music movement in Croatia, she brought a wealth of expertise and passion to the performance. Laura, who has been a professor at the Music Academy in Zagreb since 1995, played with a depth of expression that truly transported us back to the baroque era.
Accompanying her was Pavao Mašić, an esteemed organist and harpsichordist known for his virtuosic skill and profound musical erudition. Winner of the Grand Prix Bach at the 2006 Bach Organ Competition in Lausanne, Pavao’s mastery over the harpsichord and organ left the audience in awe. His role as an Associate Professor at the Zagreb Academy of Music speaks to his dedication to both his craft and the education of future musicians.
Adding an international touch was Jeannette Bogado, a violinist from Paraguay whose passion for chamber music shone through each piece she performed. Jeannette’s journey has taken her through orchestras in Paraguay, Argentina, Venezuela, Germany, and now Ireland, where she’s pursuing her MA in Classical Music Performance. Her playing brought a refreshing perspective to the ensemble, blending diverse cultural influences.
Finally, cellist Sophie Ní Mhaolain, a fourth-year undergraduate student at the Royal Irish Academy of Music, completed the ensemble. Sophie’s musical journey has included a year at the Royal Academy of Music in Aarhus, Denmark, further enriching her already exceptional skills. Her performance was nuanced and deeply moving, a testament to her dedication and talent.
As each musician played, the audience was transported back to the baroque era, experiencing the beauty of centuries-old compositions in an authentic and emotionally resonant way. St. Mary’s Church, Dublin provided the ideal setting, its historic ambience amplifying every note with a richness and clarity that made this concert an experience to cherish.
A heartfelt thank you to the Croatian Embassy, Ambassador Vidis, and Merica Vidis for making this exquisite evening possible. It was truly a privilege to witness the talent, passion, and skill of these extraordinary musicians. This enchanting night of baroque music will be remembered as a testament to the power of art in bridging cultures and connecting us through time and music.
By Life in Dublin