On Sunday, April 19, the Pevski Zbor Korotan performed at St. Mary’s Parish Hall in Cleveland before a crowd of roughly 200 enthusiastic guests. Those in attendance were treated to a wonderful collection of songs that took us on a ride through culture, patriotism, and nostalgia.

The concert opened with Korotan honoring the United States and the Republic of Slovenia with uplifting renditions of The Star-Spangled Banner and Zdravljica, the national anthems of each country. From there, the program transitioned into nostalgic songs from various regions of Slovenia, and a tribute to the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, featuring God Bless America and America the Beautiful.

John Srsen, Korotan’s director for more than 26 years, invited the audience to sing along for the choruses of God Bless America and later Slovenija, odkod lepote tvoje. This gesture, for better or worse, engaged the audience. Two solo performances—Rožic ne bom trgala, sung by Martina Jakomin and Lastovkam, sung by A.J. Hocevar—were standout moments that deeply moved the audience.

Another notable selection was Tja pojdem, pokleknem, based on a poem by Marjan Jakopic about his poet friend Karl Mausser, later set to music by former Korotan director, Franc Gorensek. The concert concluded on a joyful note with two lively pieces by the Avsenik brothers.

On stage were 44 veteran singers, the majority of whom have participated in 25 or more of Korotan’s annual concerts. Three accompanists enhanced the performance on piano, accordion, and clarinet. It all came together with John Srsen’s hands flying back and forth conducting this well-rehearsed group into a polished and unified performance.

Though time may have thinned and grayed some hairlines, the passion for singing and love of the music have not faded.  It was visible in every performer and resonated with the audience.

75th Anniversary – A Call to Come Back!

As Korotan approaches its 75th anniversary, preparations are already underway for a special milestone concert (with details to be announced). The group warmly invites members of the Slovenian community who love to sing to join and become part of this enduring legacy.

A special invitation is extended to younger members of the community, as well as anyone who has been part of Korotan in the past. Help make the 75th Anniversary Concert the best one yet.

Thank You, Korotan!

On behalf of the Slovenian community—especially those who attended this recent concert—a heartfelt Hvala Lepa goes out to John Srsen, the accompanists, and all members of Korotan who so generously share their time and talent.

Korotan remains a treasured jewel of the community. Through song, they remind Slovenian-Americans of all generations where we come from, those who brought us here, and why this community is so special. May their mission continue for generations to come.

About Korotan

For those unfamiliar, Korotan is a Slovenian choral group based in Cleveland, Ohio. Founded in 1951 by post World War II Slovenian immigrants, the group sought to preserve and celebrate the culture they were forced to leave behind. Korotan has performed concerts in Cleveland nearly every year since its founding and, by invitation, has appeared at venues across the United States, Canada, and Slovenia.

Throughout its history, Korotan has performed in various civic, faith-based, and memorial events. The group’s song repertoire highlights Slovenian musical traditions along with patriotic American songs, always reflecting pride in our Slovenian-American heritage.

pevski zbor Korotan

pevovodia: Janez Sršen