Croatian pianist and composer Bruno Vlahek has won a silver medal at the 2026 Global Music Awards for a composition that brings the traditional Croatian brač into the world of classical orchestral music. The recognition highlights both his international career and the possibilities of introducing Croatia’s musical heritage to new audiences.
Vlahek received the Silver Medal for Outstanding Achievement in the composer category for his Concerto for Brač and String Orchestra, according to the Croatian Composers’ Society.
The Global Music Awards, based in Los Angeles, recognize independent musicians, composers and performers from around the world.
The award is particularly significant because Vlahek’s composition features an instrument rarely heard as a soloist in a classical orchestral setting.
A Traditional Croatian Instrument Finds a New Voice
The brač belongs to the tamburica family, a group of traditional string instruments closely associated with Croatian folk music.
Although familiar in traditional ensembles, the instrument has rarely occupied the spotlight in classical concertos.
Vlahek’s award-winning composition places the brač in the solo role, accompanied by a string orchestra. The work demonstrates how an instrument rooted in regional folk traditions can become part of contemporary classical music.
The concerto premiered in Zadar, Croatia, in late 2024.
Musician Martin Marijanović performed the solo part, accompanied by the Zadar Chamber Orchestra under conductor Edo Mičić.
The work has now received international recognition through the Global Music Awards, where the jury honored Vlahek’s achievement in composition.
The award also draws attention to Croatia’s instrumental traditions, which continue to influence contemporary musicians and composers.
From Zagreb to International Concert Halls
Born in Zagreb in 1986, Vlahek has built a career as both a pianist and composer, performing across Europe, Asia, Africa, North and South America, and the Middle East.
His appearances have included major cultural centers such as New York, London, Vienna, Madrid, Shanghai and Seoul.
He has received numerous distinctions throughout his career, including two Porin awards for Best Classical Music Composition, among Croatia’s leading music honors.
His compositions have been performed internationally, with premieres in cities including Chicago, Amsterdam, Prague, Buenos Aires, Singapore and Sydney.
Alongside his solo career, Vlahek regularly performs in the piano duo D&B with his wife, pianist Dubravka Vukalović. The pair have earned recognition at international piano duo competitions in Monaco and London.
His recordings have also reached international audiences through broadcasters such as BBC Radio 3, France Musique and ABC Radio Australia.
For Croatian communities abroad, the award offers another example of how the country’s cultural traditions can reach audiences far beyond its borders.
Vlahek’s achievement shows that traditional instruments need not remain confined to folk performances. In the hands of contemporary composers, they can find a place on the international classical stage.
