The Belgrade Philharmonic Orchestra has unveiled its 2026/27 season, notably excluding the annual concert honoring Zoran Đinđić, Serbia’s first democratically elected Prime Minister, assassinated in 2003. This concert had been a March tradition since his death. The omission has sparked debate among cultural commentators and the public about the institution’s evolving priorities under new leadership.
Named “Fortissimo,” the season features 25 concerts with renowned conductor Zubin Mehta and celebrated pianist Lang Lang. Mehta will celebrate his long-standing relationship with the Philharmonic with an October 23 concert at Kolarac. Lang Lang is set for a gala performance at Sava Center on December 13. These events underscore the Philharmonic’s commitment to showcasing top international talent.
Bojan Suđić, who became acting director in January, leads the orchestra during this transition. His tenure follows their recent India tour with Mehta, which encountered significant artist protests. Despite these challenges, Suđić seeks to expand the orchestra’s appeal by introducing concerts tied to national holidays like Vidovdan and Sretenje, further integrating the Philharmonic into Serbia’s cultural landscape.
The program will pay tribute to key figures in the Philharmonic’s history, such as Ivan Tasovac and Gabriel Feltz, honoring those who have shaped its legacy.
The season emphasizes contemporary and diverse music, featuring a record number of Serbian premieres and spotlighting works by female composers like Grammy Award-winner Gabriela Ortiz, Ana Klein, and Joan Tower. New pieces by international composers such as Fazil Say and Serbian composers Igor Andrić and Aleksandra Vrebalov will also debut.
The decision to skip the Đinđić tribute concert has stirred controversy. For many, it served as a reminder of Đinđić’s vision for a democratic Serbia. Its absence raises questions about how cultural institutions balance tradition with contemporary issues. Some see this change as necessary for diversity and inclusivity; others view it as neglecting important cultural remembrance.
