Vocal and instrumental program

The wide variety of Croatian folk dances performed by the ensemble is accompanied by a corresponding variety of musical expression, both vocal and instrumental, and LADO has alwas been extremely comitted to this component of its repertoire. What also separates LADO from other professional folk ensembles is that its performers not only dance and sing at the same time, but can stand alone as a folk choir, capable of performing the most demanding vocal pieces. Such abundant musical heritage and LADO's extensive musical experience have resulted in LADO producing numerous musical editions of Croatian folk music, as well as other genres.

LADO's forte is a repertoire of Croatian traditional songs which emphasize different singing techniques, such as nasal, throat and so called Kopfton singing, or some regional musical characteristics, such as the Istrian musical scale, "rera" from Sinj, "ganga" from Herzegovina or Dalmatian "klapa" singing.

Since 1990, LADO has undertaken in-depth research of Croatian sacred music of common provenance, which had at that time been completely neglected, repressed and forgotten. Larger sacred works, firmly rooted in the Croatian popular sacred tradition, have been prepared and written especially for LADO to compliment the ensemble's specific singing style and quality.

These works have been prepared by Croatian composers whose work is based on traditional music. Over the past few years a considerable sacred repertoire has been collected, covering not only the church year, but also the special features of the music of particular regions in Croatia. Aside from different thematic concerts, LADO can also give performances where specific LADO performers come together to perform in smaller groups. One of these smaller groups is the female vocal group called Ladarice and another is the male vocal group called LADO Vocalists. LADO's Orchestra can also showcase outstanding solo performances.