A Joint Concert of Three Diverse Carriers of Partisan Singing at Festival Lent 2025: Partizanski Pevski Zbor Ljubljana, Ženski Pevski Zbor Kombinat, and Moški Pevski Zbor Slava Klavora

Slovenian partisan songs gained international recognition as early as during the war when Rado Simoniti gathered Primorska singers in Bari and Gravina to form the Srečko Kosovel Choir. Following the victorious march of the Allies, they performed at the Paris Peace Conference and on numerous tours across liberated Europe, impressing audiences with the exceptional quality of Slovenian partisan singing.

The success of these songs stemmed from a strong tradition of male choral singing, well-organized choirs, and a deep cultural connection to music. Even during World War I, Leo Hajek noted that Slovenian soldiers stood out as remarkable singers, singing harmonious, multi-voiced songs instead of militaristic chants.

Slovenian partisan songs remain unique—they are not militaristic but always melodic and polyphonic. Recognizing their cultural significance, the Ministry of Culture added “singing partisan songs” to the Register of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2024, with Partizanski Pevski Zbor, Ženski Pevski Zbor Kombinat, and Moški Pevski Zbor Slava Klavora among the first officially recognized bearers.

Slava Klavora, deeply rooted in Maribor’s working-class district of Melje, has upheld its legacy for 80 years, preserving both workers' and partisan songs. This special joint concert at Festival Lent 2025 will reaffirm the living spirit of partisan singing in Maribor, especially in light of the 80th anniversary of the victory over fascism.

Tickets:

• €8 standing, €10 seated (until June 19)
• €13 standing, €15 seated (from June 20)