After more than three weeks on strike, the Belgrade Philharmonic Orchestra returning to the concert stage on Friday, April 4, at Kolarac (8 PM).

Although the musicians’ demands remain unmet despite the strike, the Ministry of Culture has promised further discussions in search of a solution for the institution. Frustrated  by the lack of progress but still determined, the musicians vow to continue their fight by persistently holding officials and authorities accountable for their promises.

We took this strike as a drastic measure, but also a necessary step to fight for our rights. Now, we are ending it — not because our demands have been met, but simply so that our musicians don’t ‘starve to death.’ Our efforts are being blocked by bad laws and even worse regulations. Good intentions alone are not enough — we need courage, commitment, and real action from those in charge to change the laws and policies that keep us trapped. Until that happens, we will continue to decline systematically, all under the rationalisation that we are declining in line with the law. It is not a matter of lack of funding, but rather of ignorance, neglect, and a fundamental misunderstanding of culture by those making the rules, said the Belgrade Philharmonic Orchestra’s Strike Committee.

Now, under the baton of conductor Daniel Raiskin, the Belgrade Philharmonic is returning to its devoted audience, whose unwavering support has meant everything throughout this difficult time.