The program opens with George Gershwin's "Rhapsody in Blue." Martina Filjak, the best Croatian pianist, an artist of galvanizing power with a magnetic stage presence, regularly impresses international audiences and critics with her simultaneously passionate and lyrical playing and technical perfection. "Rhapsody in Blue" is an energetic and innovative work that uniquely reflects the spirit of 20th-century American music. With its original combination of diverse rhythms, jazz improvisation, and the distinctive trill of the clarinet, "Rhapsody in Blue" is an iconic composition that blends tradition with modernity.
In the second part of the New Year's concert, compositions by Johann Strauss Jr., the 'king of waltzes,' and a song by Franz Lehár are featured. The vibrant music of Strauss, with its pronounced rhythms and sophisticated arrangements, reflects the ease and elegance of Viennese society. Its performance at traditional Viennese New Year's concerts has strongly connected it with the musical celebration of New Year's, a tradition embraced by the Orchestra of the Croatian National Theatre Split. Maestro Lipanović has chosen this year the Overture to Strauss's operetta "The Gypsy Baron," his waltzes "Voices of Spring" and "On the Beautiful Blue Danube," as well as polkas "Anina Polka," "Éljen a Magyar!," and "Thunder and Lightning." The concert program also includes Franz Lehár's "Vilia's Song" from his operetta "The Merry Widow," which will be performed by the soloist of the Croatian National Theatre Split, soprano Nela Šarić, who will also perform in the rendition of Strauss's waltz "Voices of Spring."