Dubrovnik-New Zealand Artistic Combination and Unusual Program

The only drawback of the concert we’ll discuss is that, due to inclement weather, it could not be held in the Rector's Palace. Nor could it be in a concert hall because we don’t have one. For everything else—especially regarding the atmosphere of the performance—there are no complaints.

Antun Poljanić in His Hometown

Fortunately, the Franciscan Church acoustically suited the performing ensemble that evening. The church was filled to capacity, with many listening while standing. Such a solemn and excited atmosphere strangely contrasted with the stormy weather that made Stradun gray and desolate.

The Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra was conducted by Dubrovnik native Antun Poljanić. Poljanić has been living in New Zealand since 1997 and will soon become the conductor and musical director of the Auckland Youth Orchestra.

The opening piece was Sibelius's Impromptu for Strings. The serene music with its subdued tone beautifully manifested through rich harmonies. The wistful resonance at the beginning and end created a mood full of emotion. Under Poljanić’s direction, the Dubrovnik string players skillfully painted images and elicited strong applause.

The Harmony of Soloist and Orchestra

From the part of the world where Poljanić has lived for almost thirty years, the soloist, oboist Noah Rudd, also joined. He performed the solo part in Haydn's Oboe Concerto in C Major. We witnessed a highly engaged communication among all performers that kept us focused from beginning to end. Oboist Noah Rudd has a beautiful and strong tone of consistent color across all ranges. His clear, musical, and thoughtful phrasing particularly captured attention. It was evident that the soloist, conductor, and orchestra members all enjoyed Haydn's work equally. That emotion transferred to the audience, who responded with prolonged applause.

For the second half, Mozart’s Symphony No. 33 in B Major was selected. It sounded inspired and meaningful. Praise is due to everyone, especially the well-rehearsed woodwind section composed of two bassoons, oboes, and horns.

Conductor Antun Poljanić led the performers through all three scores with measured and confident movements, and we consider this concert—featuring a rarely performed repertoire—exceptionally successful. This is especially true given it hosted a Dubrovnik native and an exceptional soloist, both with New Zealand addresses.

- Translation by ChatGPT