Slovenian Embassy Celebrates Milestone Anniversary

The Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in Ottawa hosted a concert last Thursday to commemorate the 10^th anniversary of Slovenia becoming a member of the European Union. The concert was hosted at the Frieman Hall at the University of Ottawa and featured soprano Irena Preda and pianist Nejc Lavren?i?, who gave performances to honour the momentous occasion.

The pair presented a program of songs with a spring theme, featuring prominent Slovenian composers from the Romantic era and the 20th century, along with  a selection of arias by celebrated European composers.

Irena Preda is one of the world’s leading sopranos. She gave a performance at the 20^th anniversary of Slovenia’s independence at the Houses of Parliament and the Westminster Cathedral in London. She has performed across Europe and Asia and is praised by the world’s leading names in classical music. This recital marked Preda’s debut in Canada.

Nejc Lavren?i? is a celebrated solo pianist, chamber musician, and interpret of songs for voice and piano. He completed his piano studies at the Secondary school for Music and Ballet (SGBŠ) in Maribor. He is also the winner of the Dr. Roman Klasinc Award for achievements and creativity.

Since Slovenia joined the European Union in 2004, the country has experienced many positive changes, including switching Slovenia’s currency to the Euro, being part of Schengen since 2007, and assuming Slovenian Presidency of the European Union Council in 2008.