KOSORIĆ: ACCORDION ORCHESTRA BRINGS ART MUSIC FROM CLASSICAL TO CONTEMPORARY STYLES

ISTOČNO SARAJEVO, MARCH 29 /SRNA/ – Dražan Kosorić, artistic director and conductor of the Accordion Orchestra of the Music Academy at the University of Istočno Sarajevo, told SRNA that through the sound of the accordion, the ensemble presents works of art music from different eras in a unique way from the Baroque, Classical and Romantic periods to the 20th and 21st centuries, for which he mostly creates arrangements.

Kosorić noted that the accordion is often viewed stereotypically, but emphasized that it is a universal instrument capable of excelling in all genres and styles of music, including orchestral performance.

The Accordion Orchestra has between 30 and 35 members, forms a mandatory part of practical instruction, and performs a wide range of works, from classical to contemporary compositions.

Kosorić added that their repertoire also includes original pieces specifically written for accordion orchestra, including some of his own compositions.

FIRST PERFORMANCE AT "AKORDEON ART" FESTIVAL

Kosorić said the Accordion Orchestra was founded 15 years ago and had its first performance at the international festival "Akordeon Art," now known as "Akordeon Art Plus," organized by the Music Academy of the University of Istočno Sarajevo.

"The accordion orchestra is very specific - more than 90 percent of the instruments are the same or very similar, but they are divided into groups with different roles," Kosorić explained.

According to him, some instruments carry the melodic line, others the harmony, some the bass line, while others provide accompanying voices in the musical texture.

The only distinct instrument within the ensemble is the bass accordion.

"It is exclusively an orchestral instrument used to perform the bass line in a composition. It has a deeper sound than other accordions, is played only with the right hand while the left controls the bellows, and it is indispensable - much like the double bass in a symphony or string orchestra," Kosorić said.

He added that, depending on the composition, the orchestra may also include two to three flutes and a piano, which appear in different roles.

Kosorić explained that a full orchestral setup would also require a percussion section.

"Since our Music Academy does not have a percussion department, we cooperate with the Music Academy in Sarajevo. For major performances, their students join our rehearsals and perform with us," he said.

Kosorić emphasized that the Accordion Orchestra has become a hallmark of the ceremonial opening of the "Akordeon Art Plus" festival.

"That is our most important task during the summer semester - to prepare a program and present the Music Academy, the University, our city, and Republika Srpska in the best possible way," he stressed.

He pointed out that the festival has gained a strong reputation and recognition, and that this year it will be held for the 16th time.

"Our responsibility is great to prepare and present ourselves well. I believe we have succeeded in that over the years and have received significant praise," Kosorić said.

He noted that the orchestra has performed in cities across Republika Srpska as well as in the Federation of BiH.

"We would also like to prepare for a competition and participate, to see where we stand and be evaluated by an international jury," Kosorić added.

REGULAR REHEARSALS ENSURE CONTINUITY

He explained that rehearsals are held regularly twice a week for two hours, becoming more intensive ahead of performances.

"At first, we work in sections, by parts. We read through the score of the selected program, rehearse it, and then gradually add and combine groups until we reach the full ensemble. This ensures continuity. Later, the focus shifts from technical work to musical and artistic expression," Kosorić explained.

MUSIC ACADEMY RECOGNIZED FOR ACCORDION STUDIES

Kosorić highlighted that the Music Academy in Istočno Sarajevo is well known for its accordion program.

"Each year we enroll the desired number of students. We can be proud of that and satisfied," he said.

He believes this is also due to improved working conditions made possible by moving into a new building of the Music Academy.

"I would like to thank everyone who made it possible for us to have such a building and to work in these conditions. The final touch, the sweetest one, will be when our concert hall is completed. We are truly looking forward to it," Kosorić said.

A feature report on the Accordion Orchestra of the Music Academy at the University of Istočno Sarajevo is available on SRNA’s YouTube channel.