Beethoven in Sarajevo: Socio-political discourses in the background of the first performances of the Eeroica and the Pastoral Symphony

The article explores the concert life of Sarajevo during the Austro-Hungarian administration (1878-1918), using the works of Ludwig van Beethoven as a case study. In addition to a series of concert events featuring a diverse repertoire - ranging from cabaret and operetta evenings to public performances by choral societies and concerts of serious music - the presence of Ludwig van Beethoven?s oeuvre can also be observed, with his works appearing in programs as early as 1881. Still, a culmination of Beethoven?s presence on the concert stage included Sarajevo premieres of Eroica and Pastoral Symphony, which were historic moments in the context of musical life of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Respecting the historiographical facts about historical premieres, the aim of the article is to question sociopolitical discourses in the background of the mentioned Beethoven?s compositions. For this purpose, among other things, news from daily and periodical newspapers which could give insight into public opinion, as well as the circumstances of political, social, and cultural life, have been consulted.