Mario Lončar
Concert
Mario Lončar, born in 1989 in Koprivnica, is one of the leading trumpet players in Croatia. He began his musical journey at a young age and, over the years, has been recognized as an exceptional performer, educator, and artist. Since 2016, he has held the position of principal trumpet of the Zagreb Philharmonic Orchestra, and as of 2023, he serves as an assistant professor at the Department of Trumpet at the Zagreb Academy of Music. His career encompasses not only orchestral music but also solo and chamber performances with ensembles such as Ad Gloriam Brass and BC Brass, achieving significant successes, including the recording of the *Opera Brass* CD in 2021, as well as performances in Indonesia and Azerbaijan.
As a soloist, Lončar has distinguished himself on many prestigious occasions. In 2024, he performed with the Zagreb Philharmonic as part of the Blue Cycle under the baton of maestro Ivor Bolton, playing J. B. G. Neruda’s Concerto for Trumpet, Strings, and Continuo. This program was also performed during the orchestra’s tour of Slavonia. Additionally, in 2023, he collaborated with the Croatian Radio and Television Tamburitza Orchestra, performing Jurica Hrenić’s Concerto Grosso for Trumpet, Piano, Percussion, and Tamburitza Orchestra, which he recorded for the Croatian Radio archive that same year. His solo engagements also include collaborations with the Zadar Chamber Orchestra and the Croatian Armed Forces Wind Symphony Orchestra, earning widespread acclaim.
He graduated from the Zagreb Academy of Music in 2013 under the mentorship of Assoc. Prof. Marin Zokić. During his studies, he showcased his talent by participating in various competitions. He has won numerous awards, including first place at the national competition in 2010 and at international trumpet competitions in Ohrid and Belgrade. His competitive success culminated in reaching the finals of the international competition in Ulm in 2012. Even during his studies, he was engaged as a regular external collaborator with the Croatian Radio and Television Symphony Orchestra and the Zagreb Comedy Theatre.
Lončar’s artistic activity extends to numerous performances at prestigious festivals in Croatia, such as the Split Summer Festival, the Chamber Music Festival in Čakovec, the Like Lika Festival, and the Osor Musical Evenings. His international achievements include performances at the Teatro Miramar in Cuba, as part of the SiBRASS Cycle in Ljubljana, and at the International Tribune of Composers in Belgrade. His performance career demonstrates exceptional dedication and professionalism, placing him among the most respected trumpet players in the region.
As an educator, Mario Lončar significantly contributes to the development of young musicians. He regularly conducts seminars and lectures and served as a jury member at the Slovenian National Competition TEMSIG in 2023. In recent years, he has held seminars in Koprivnica and Sinj, as well as at the Brass Academy in Grožnjan. His teaching is enriched by experiences gained from masterclasses with renowned international musicians such as Reinhold Friedrich, Jon Faddis, Gábor Tarkövi, and others.
Mario Lončar leaves an indelible mark on the music community, whether through his performances, collaborations, or educational endeavors. His dedication to music and constant pursuit of excellence serve as an inspiration to musicians of all generations.