The First Accordion of Serbia

From 08th until 10th of August 2023.

SUMMER STAGE „VRELO“

“The First Accordion of Sokobanja” is one of the oldest music festivals in Serbia and a recognizable symbol of Sokobanja. It was held for the first time 60 years ago, and the name of the festival has changed several times, as the importance and interest in the festival increased. It has been held for 41 years under the name “First Accordion of Yugoslavia”, for 15 years under the name “First Accordion of Sokobanja”, and since 2018 the name of the festival is “First Accordion of Serbia – Sokobanja”. Whatever name it bears, the quality, durability and continuity of this festival, which is widely known outside the borders of the former Yugoslavia, is indisputable. A large number of famous accordionists, composers, songwriters, ensemble leaders, and music editors began their music careers with a good placement at this Festival. For more than half a century (since 1962), the best accordion players from the country and abroad are competing for the prestigious title of the „First accordionist“ – the overall winner of the festival. Many winners of the festival later became famous masters of accordion – Branimir Djokic, Novica Negovanovic, Misa Mijatovic, Vlada Panovic, Aleksandar Sofronijevic, Borko Radivojevic, Kemis and many others. Today’s young musicians see their chance for success and breakthrough in the music world by becoming the festival winners, which speaks of it’s reputation.

From 2018, the competitive part of the festival has two phases – pre-qualification competitions in several cities in Serbia and abroad and the finals of the festival, which is held in Sokobanja in mid-August. Pre-qualification competitions are held during May and June in Leskovac, Žabari (festival “Assembly of accordionists of Serbia”), Borovo-Croatia (festival „First Accordion of Slavonia, Baranja and western Srem“), Vienna (Austria), Bijeljina (Bosnia) and Sokobanja.

Come to enjoy the sounds of the accordion of the best virtuosos on this instrument! Make sure that “First Accordion” is still one of the most prestigious music festivals in Serbia today. Besides excellent young contestants, the audience can hear some of the country’s best accordion players and also enjoy the concerts of famous folk music performers from Serbia and surrounding countries.