MGLC Summer in Tivoli: Mihael Hrustelj and ZveN: Čaralice

Mihael Hrustelj

Mihael Hrustelj is widely recognised as one of Slovenia's leading guitarists. His work is dedicated to exploring the expressive potential of the classical guitar, skilfully interweaving its traditions with elements of jazz, progressive rock and folk music. Through his innovative approach, he continually pushes the boundaries of classical guitar performance. His distinctive style, deeply rooted in South Slavic musical heritage, has earned him acclaim both in Slovenia and internationally. He has performed across Europe, East Asia and Slovenia, and has released seven solo albums to date. After a decade in the Netherlands, where he studied and graduated from the Rotterdam Conservatory, Hrustelj returned to Slovenia, drawing renewed inspiration from its unspoiled nature and rich musical traditions.

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ZveN: Čaralice

In Zvezdana Novaković's project Čaralice [Enchantments], ritual praises to nature, ancient magical words and incantations, once used by our ancestors to heal physical and emotional ailments, are brought to life. Especially for the project, its author has set enchanted words to music and transformed traditional ritual chants into a modern soundscape, which is interwoven with the voices of all the performing singers and the synthetic sounds of instruments through dance and performance elements. Čaralice is a tribute to Pavel Medvešček and all followers of the Old Faith, who have respectfully cultivated our oldest faith, the faith in nature.

Performing:

Zvezdana Novaković ZveN – author of the project, compositions, vocals

Jasna Žitnik Remic, Ursula Luthar Matoz, Petra Prosen, Maja Zagmajster, Sonca Menart, Zarja Menart, Kaja Horvat, Katarina Mohorič – backing vocals, dance and percussion

Concerts selected by: Pinela's Living Room