Photo credit: DSO
Dubrovnik is a city with an invaluable cultural heritage, and its connection to music is unbreakable. It is the only city in this part of Europe, and one of the few in the world, where orchestral music has been performed continuously for a full seven centuries. The Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra (DSO) carries this rich tradition, and 2025 marks the grand centennial of an orchestra that has been enriching both the local community and visitors from around the world with its artistry.
DSO is one of the rare orchestras in the world that has operated without interruption, with roots stretching back to the time of the Republic of Dubrovnik (1358–1808). Over the centuries, the orchestra has become an essential part of the city’s cultural identity, offering a diverse concert repertoire that enhances Dubrovnik’s musical scene year-round. The Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra organizes a variety of festivals, concert cycles, and events throughout the year, including performances at the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, the Dubrovnik Musical Spring and Stars Cycle, as well as festivals like Stradun Classic and Autumn Music Variety — all symbols of artistic excellence.
Beyond its performances in Dubrovnik, the orchestra has represented the city on international tours across Europe, the USA, and Indonesia, performing in prestigious venues such as the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., and the Musikverein Golden Hall in Vienna. In recognition of its contributions, DSO was awarded the Milka Trnina Prize in 2005, the Award for Contribution to the Reputation and Promotion of the Dubrovnik-Neretva County in 2015, and the Grand Prix Orlando in 2020 for outstanding artistic achievement.
An Authentic Dubrovnik Musical Experience for Corporate Events
What makes DSO truly special is not just its history and achievements but also its flexibility and ability to enhance a variety of events through music. The orchestra offers customized programs for private and corporate events, conferences, and incentive travel. Organizers can choose between a full-orchestra performance or smaller ensembles such as a string quartet, a Brass & Percussion septet, or the Pop’s Ensemble, which performs popular and film music.
This offering adds a distinctive cultural touch to any business gathering or gala dinner. Imagine an elegant evening at the Rector’s Palace, accompanied by the sounds of Vivaldi, or Beethoven’s symphony as a powerful opening to a conference. In the MICE sector, where personalized experiences are increasingly in demand, such concerts provide exceptional value and an unforgettable memory.
International Orchestral Conducting Seminar in Dubrovnik
In addition to its concert activities, DSO is dedicated to educating young musicians and organizing international seminars. From February 23–28, 2025, the orchestra will host the 10th International Orchestral Conducting Seminar, where young conductors will refine their skills under the guidance of the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra and renowned maestro Uroš Lajovic, an esteemed pedagogue.
The seminar is organized in collaboration with the Lovro and Lilly Matačić Fund and the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra, with support from the Dubrovnik Tourist Board. This year’s participants come from China, France, the USA, Germany, Italy, Spain, Croatia, and Australia. The program includes Wagner’s Siegfried Idyll, Tchaikovsky’s Variations on a Rococo Theme, and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 4, with soloist Ari Peraza Webb on cello. The seminar will conclude with a final concert on February 28, open to the public.
Following the seminar, March will be dedicated to youth and young musicians, earning the title "Month of Youth and DSO." In April, Rossini’s renowned Stabat Mater will be performed, followed by a grand celebratory concert on April 13—exactly 100 years after the first performance of the Dubrovnik Philharmonic in 1925. This anniversary concert will take place at the same venue, conducted by Maestro Dawid Runtz, with acclaimed Czech violinist Jiří Vodička as the soloist.
By combining tradition, quality, and innovation, DSO remains an essential part of Dubrovnik’s cultural offering. For business guests and event organizers, collaborating with the orchestra opens doors to exclusive musical experiences that can become the highlight of their stay in the city. Whether it’s a private concert at one of Dubrovnik’s historic venues or participation in one of its music festivals, DSO adds a unique rhythm to Dubrovnik, making it an even more desirable destination for business and cultural gatherings.
