On May 20, 2025, a ceremonial program held at the Faculty of Science and Education (FPMOZ) of the University of Mostar marked the official opening of the Ethnomusicological Hub—a newly established specialized classroom for the Music Studies Department. Designed as a space for creation, research, and interpretation of traditional music, the Hub will also serve as a center for long-term educational initiatives.
The program began with an address by Prof. Dr. Marin Ćorluka, Dean of FPMOZ, who expressed strong support for the academic, scientific, and artistic work of the Music Studies Department and emphasized the importance of investing in infrastructure and creative initiatives.
An inspiring speech was delivered by Prof. Dr. Lidija Vladić-Mandarić, Head of the Music Studies Department, who highlighted the multifaceted value of the Ethnomusicological Hub for teaching, research, and artistic expression, as well as its role in preserving and revitalizing musical heritage. On this occasion, she extended sincere thanks to the Ministry of Civil Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, whose support through cultural project funding made the realization of this space possible—laying the foundation for higher quality education and research in the field of ethnomusicology. At the end of her address, she officially declared the Hub open, emphasizing the importance of unity, dedication, and vision in achieving such initiatives.
The musical portion of the program featured two performances symbolically reflecting themes of unity and cultural identity, bringing the spirit of traditional storytelling into the space. The Mixed Choir of the Music Studies Department, under the artistic direction of Prof. Katja Krolo-Šarac, performed the Easter sequence “Victimae paschali laudes” arranged by Joško Ćaleta. This was followed by a gusle performance of the piece “Diva Grabovčeva” by ethno-musician Jure Miloš.
In the academic segment of the event, Prof. Dr. Katarina Dadić from the Faculty of Croatian Studies, University of Zagreb, delivered a lecture titled “Tradition as a Source or an Obstacle to Authenticity: The Role of Deep Beliefs in Shaping the Indigenous Self.” She emphasized that tradition, rather than being a limitation, can serve as a foundation for building an authentic identity. Her presentation raised important questions about the role of deeply held beliefs in personality formation and encouraged the audience to reflect on tradition as a resource for personal and cultural development.
The event also featured the presentation of the book “Biobibliography” of Prof. Dr. Duško Bjelica, authored by Petar Krivokapić and Nada Drašković, and published by the Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, University of Montenegro, and the Montenegrin Sports Academy. The book was introduced by Prof. Dr. Marin Ćorluka and Prof. Dr. Ivana Čerkez Zovko, who underscored the importance of documenting and recording academic work. Prof. Bjelica also addressed the audience, expressing his gratitude to the organizers and attendees for their support.
The event concluded with a reception at the Faculty’s cafeteria, symbolically affirming the mission of the Ethnomusicological Hub as a place of encounter, dialogue, and inspiration for students, faculty, collaborators, and guests.
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