Dayton Reporter

Congressman Mike Turner, representing Ohio's 10th district and head of the U.S. delegation to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, announced at a press conference in Dayton that the Sarajevo Philharmonic Orchestra will perform in the city during the 2025 NATO Parliamentary Assembly Spring Session. The event will feature two performances, including a "Concert for Peace" on May 29, 2025, conducted by Marin Alsop at the Schuster Center.

"This is going to be a Concert for Peace to commemorate peace in the Balkans — the 30th anniversary for the Dayton Peace Accords — but also a concert for our community," said Congressman Turner. He emphasized the collaboration between the Sarajevo Philharmonic and Dayton Philharmonic as a symbol of unity.

Gabriel van Aalst, President/CEO of Dayton Live, highlighted Dayton's legacy in promoting peace: "We're looking forward to presenting an evening that celebrates Dayton's legacy of championing peace and shines a bright spotlight on our flourishing arts community."

Vedran Tuce, Director of the Sarajevo Philharmonic, recalled the significance of peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina: "I remember very well the winter of 1995 when all of us here started losing—easily losing hope—that this chaos would ever stop. And then it happened: a peace agreement was reached."

Patrick Nugent, President/CEO of Dayton Philharmonic, expressed excitement about working with international musicians: "Our musicians are so excited to be working together with yours." He praised Marin Alsop's involvement and mentioned Keitaro Harada conducting another concert during the assembly.

Dr. Sue Edwards, President of Wright State University, voiced support for hosting international guests: "We really look forward to Wright State taking part and supporting the Sarajevo Orchestra."

The Sarajevo Philharmonic Orchestra has been recognized as a cultural emblem since its founding in 1923. Its participation underscores Dayton’s historical role in diplomacy and commemorates three decades since the signing of the Dayton Peace Accords.

In preparation for this event, Congressman Turner initiated discussions with Vedran Tuce in 2022. This marks Turner's continued engagement with NATO since his appointment in January 2009.

The upcoming assembly session will be significant as it is only the second time such an event is hosted by the United States since Orlando hosted an annual session in fall 2003.