Churches of the reformation heritage

This article considers the role of music in the churches of the Reformation heritage in the Republic of Croatia through three thematic areas: foreign musical influences, the quality of local musical creative output, and its broader social resonance. Particular attention is devoted to the historical evolution of contemporary Christian music, especially the impact of foreign performers and organizations from the mid-twentieth century to the present, and their role in shaping the local musical practices. The work is based on an analytical reading of available sources, as well as the author’s extensive practical experience in the area of music in general and concert work in particular within different denominational contexts. The second part underscores the importance of excellence as a key factor of cultural influence, combined with a critical examination of challenges related to production, institutional visibility, and systemic support of musicians. The final section reflects on the social potential of church music as a means of communication of theological values in the public sphere. In conclusion, the article argues that there is a need for a strategic, interdisciplinary, and long-term approach to musical creativity to achieve a full spiritual and social effect.