Tomislav Bralić – The Power of Emotion and Live Music
When we talk about Croatian music that successfully combines tradition, emotion, and modern concert production, one name inevitably stands out – Tomislav Bralić. The leader of the klapa Intrade has been winning over audiences throughout the region for decades, and his concerts have become synonymous with a musical experience not to be missed. Whether he performs in small towns along the Adriatic coast or fills arenas in large cities, Bralić and his klapa offer an experience that is remembered for a lifetime.
Born in Zadar, Tomislav Bralić showed a love for klapa singing from a young age, and his baritone has become a recognizable sign of the musical identity of Dalmatia. With the klapa Intrade, which he has led since 1985, he has created a unique musical story that combines the Dalmatian melos and emotion with a modern approach to stage performance. It is not uncommon for their concerts to turn into spontaneous sing-alongs with the audience singing in unison, tears in their eyes, raised hands, and ovations that last for minutes.
In the year 2025 / 2026, Tomislav Bralić and klapa Intrade continued their string of successes. The last concert in the Pula Arena, held in front of a packed auditorium, once again confirmed how beloved this musical group is among audiences of all generations. In addition to domestic performances, Bralić is also known for tours throughout the diaspora – from Canada to Australia – where he gathers thousands of people eager to hear "Zora bila" or "Croatio, iz duše te ljubim" live.
His influence on the Croatian music scene is multi-layered. Not only does he nurture and promote klapa music, but he has also managed to popularize this traditional form of singing in a way that is accessible to younger generations. He regularly performs at festivals such as the Šibenik Chanson Festival or the Split Festival, and his songs are regularly at the top of radio charts. His interpretation of songs is extremely emotional, imbued with life experience and the Dalmatian temperament, which sets him apart from many performers of a similar musical direction.
What particularly distinguishes Tomislav Bralić and his klapa is their consistency and the quality of their performances. Regardless of whether they are performing in the squares of small Dalmatian towns or in prestigious concert halls, the audience always knows what to expect – an evening full of emotions, powerful vocal expression, and an authentic Dalmatian spirit. Their concerts are not just musical events – they are a celebration of identity, community, and love for music that has deep roots in Croatian tradition.
Why should you see Tomislav Bralić live?
- Spectacular performance – Every concert by Tomislav Bralić and klapa Intrade is carefully designed, from the first note to the last encore. Professional production, acoustics, and the emotions they bring to the stage create an unforgettable experience.
- Popular songs live – "Zora bila," "Ne damo te pismo naša," "Croatio iz duše te ljubim," and many other songs take on a special meaning when performed in front of an audience. Anyone who has heard them live knows that the words then become a more powerful message.
- Energetic connection with the audience – Bralić and the klapa have an incredible ability to create an intimate atmosphere even in large venues. The audience does not remain just a listener – it becomes part of the performance, through song, applause, and emotion.
- Visual and stage elements – Although music plays the primary role, scenography and lighting further enhance the experience. Sometimes video projections are also used, symbols of Dalmatia, images of the sea and old Dalmatian towns, which further enhances the emotional impression.
- Audience reactions and reviews – Critics regularly point out that these are the "most sincere and moving performances on the domestic music scene." The audience often leaves concerts moved, fulfilled, and emotionally nourished.
- Last performances and tours – In the year 2025 / 2026, the klapa performed at the Pula Arena, and previously they held a series of sold-out concerts across Croatia, including Zagreb, Split, and Osijek. Each performance was a unique night to remember.
What also makes Tomislav Bralić's performances special is his relationship with the audience. He is known for his warm and sincere approach to every concert – whether he is singing in front of thousands of people in a large hall or a smaller audience in a local cultural center. Bralić never performs mechanically – he experiences every performance as a sharing of emotion, his own and that which the audience conveys. He often improvises, throws in a local accent, mentions events from the life of the place where he is performing, which further contributes to the feeling of closeness between the performer and the listener.
We should not forget the importance of the rest of the klapa Intrade in the overall musical expression. This is an extremely well-rehearsed group of vocalists who build a recognizable sound with their polyphony. Their harmony, intonation accuracy, and performance strength form the backbone of every performance. Although Bralić often takes on the solo role, the entire klapa acts as a single body that conveys the emotion of the song. It is precisely because of this coordination that their concerts exude authenticity and professionalism.
Regarding the musical style, it is worth noting that the songs of klapa Intrade are often a blend of traditional Dalmatian lyrics and contemporary arrangements. Their songs do not shy away from the themes of love, homeland, the sea, and partings – but every verse carries a deep emotional foundation. In today's world, where the scene is full of electronic music and short-lived content, it is precisely this kind of sincere musical expression that represents a kind of counterweight – something that is not consumed superficially, but is felt and lived.
It is also worth mentioning a special moment that occurred at one of their concerts in Zagreb when, during the performance of the song "Croatio, iz duše te ljubim," the audience spontaneously began to sing the chorus before the klapa even got to it. The emotional charge was so great that the entire hall stood still in a moment of unity that cannot be planned or repeated – this is what happens only at the concerts of Tomislav Bralić and klapa Intrade.
His musical career has built bridges between generations. Younger fans recognize the sincerity and emotional depth, while the older audience feels nostalgia and a sense of belonging. Such universal acceptance is a rarity on the domestic scene, and Bralić manages to maintain this status without scandals, marketing tricks, or controversies – exclusively through music and dedication. This is probably the reason why every year, including 2025 / 2026, his performances record record attendance.
Lately, his collaboration with young performers and bands has been particularly prominent, through which Tomislav Bralić shows openness to new generations. His duet with the group Cambi was an excellent example of combining traditional and modern, and many consider it a bridge that opens the door for klapa music into new genres and festival performances that were not previously associated with this style.
Tomislav Bralić is not just a performer – he is an institution of the music scene. His presence on stage, the quality of his performance, and his consistency in preserving identity make him one of the most important musicians of today in Croatia and the region. Every one of his concerts is a true emotional story worth experiencing live.
Tomislav Bralić – How to prepare for the performance?
Attending a concert by Tomislav Bralić and klapa Intrade is not just an ordinary trip to a musical event – it is an experience that requires some preparation for the experience to be complete. The first thing to consider is the concert location. Whether it's the Pula Arena, Split's Peristyle, Zadar's Forum, or a sports hall in Zagreb, each venue has its own specialty. You should consider
accommodation near the hall or stage in time because Tomislav Bralić's concerts are known for great interest and there is often a high demand for seats.
Tickets are often sold out several weeks in advance, so planning is key. If you are traveling from another city, be sure to secure
accommodation earlier to avoid stress on the day of the event. Many visitors combine the concert with a weekend getaway – especially in cities like Zadar, Split, or Pula where you can enjoy the cultural offerings, gastronomy, and relaxation by the sea.
For those arriving by car, it is recommended to check parking options nearby. Larger concert halls and stadiums often have organized parking lots, but they can be full on the night of the concert. Alternatively, you can use public transport or share a ride with other visitors. If the concert is in the evening, consider spending the night in
accommodation not far from the event venue to avoid returning tired.
During the concert, it is worth being prepared for all weather conditions, especially if it is held outdoors. Bring layered clothing, waterproof jackets if rain is expected, and of course – enough space on your phone or camera for photos and videos that you will surely want to capture. Some concerts can last more than two hours, so it is important to have comfortable footwear and enough time to arrive before the program begins.
Interesting facts about Tomislav Bralić that you might not have known
Tomislav Bralić is not just the voice of klapa music – he is a person with numerous interesting facts that further connect the audience with his character and life. It is little known that before his professional music career, he worked as a sailor, which can be felt in his songs that often exude love for the sea and the Dalmatian way of life. This connection with the sea and life on the coast is present in almost every one of his performances, and the audience often points out that this is precisely why his songs seem authentic.
One of his most famous collaborations was with the late Oliver Dragojević. Together they performed several songs that caused an avalanche of emotions, among which the joint performance of the song "Vjeruj u ljubav" stands out. This duet still provokes strong reactions on social media and YouTube, where it has millions of views.
He is also known for not using teleprompters during his performances – he knows all the songs by heart, and his gaze towards the audience is always open and direct. It is often in moments of improvisation that the best parts of the concert are created, when the audience feels that both the performer and the listeners are connected by the same feeling.
As one of the few musicians who have maintained a stable and positive image throughout decades of his career, Bralić has built the trust of an audience that is rarely seen in today's music industry. No scandals, no media outbursts – just music, audience, and emotion.
What to expect at the performance?
Attending a Tomislav Bralić concert often brings a mix of excitement, nostalgia, and pride. The set list, although it changes occasionally, always includes the biggest hits that the audience eagerly awaits. "Zora bila," "Ne damo te pismo naša," "Vilo moja," "Croatio, iz duše te ljubim," and "Ribari" are almost indispensable, and it is not uncommon for the audience to spontaneously join in and sing entire choruses.
In recent concerts, there have also been special performances accompanied by a string quartet and guest musicians who further enrich the performance. Such moments show Bralić's readiness to take the concert to a higher level, but without deviating from authenticity. Some concerts also include guest appearances by local klapas, which further strengthens the experience and adds an extra note of community.
The audience that comes to Tomislav Bralić's concerts is very diverse – from retirees to young couples and families with children. In one hall, you can find three generations singing the same songs together. This intergenerational presence is proof that the music of klapa Intrade has a universal power of connection. Many visitors come from more distant parts of Croatia, and often from abroad, so it is advisable to secure
accommodation well in advance, especially in cities like Zagreb, Split, and Zadar where concerts attract great interest.
Another special feature of these performances is the spontaneous atmosphere. Although the concert is organized, it often feels like a gathering with friends by the sea, with music and wine. Emotions flow from the stage to the audience and back, and it is not uncommon to hear the comment that "this is not a concert, this is therapy for the soul."
It should be emphasized that every concert by Tomislav Bralić and klapa Intrade has its own personality. No two performances are the same – each brings new energy, new interaction, and new emotion. Therefore, regardless of whether you have already been to a concert or are just preparing for your first one, get ready for an evening filled with song, community, and a feeling that is not forgotten.
To experience everything the concert has to offer without rush and stress, it is recommended to choose
accommodation as close as possible to the event venue, especially if you are coming from another city or from abroad. This way you can fully enjoy the evening, without worrying about the return journey, crowds, or fatigue. In addition, it is the perfect opportunity to experience the destination where the concert is held along with the concert – whether it is the old core of Zadar, historic Pula, or metropolitan Zagreb.
The audience at Tomislav Bralić's performances often emphasizes a sense of pride – not only because of the music itself, but also because the concerts reflect the identity of the Croatian south, the values of family, homeland, and community. Klapa singing in their performance is no longer just a musical form – it is a cultural expression, a spiritual connection, and a bridge between people. This is precisely what encourages the audience to come back again and again, even if they have already attended concerts in different cities several times.
One of the most memorable moments in his recent career happened in the year 2025 / 2026 during the summer tour, when a concert in Zadar grew into a spontaneous large choral performance by the audience. After the klapa sang the introduction, the audience took over the main parts and continued the song to the end, which was recorded and spread on social media as proof of how deeply Tomislav Bralić's music resonates with people.
It is precisely because of such moments that many visitors plan Bralić's performance not just as an evening out, but as a full-day or even multi-day event. Arriving from more distant cities often turns into a short vacation – sightseeing in the host city, dinner at a local restaurant, and then the concert. That is why it is useful to book
accommodation in advance that is close enough to the concert location, so that the whole experience is carefree and completely relaxing.
Performances are regularly held in different settings – from historical sites such as fortresses and amphitheaters, to modern halls and open stages in squares. Each of these locations provides specific acoustics and atmosphere, and the organizers try to ensure that everything technically and logistically is executed at a high level. Bralić knows every corner of the stage on which he performs, which allows him to precisely direct his voice, move confidently, and create contact with the audience, whether they are ten meters away or located at the other end of the stands.
It is worth noting that the audience itself often comes prepared – with scarves, T-shirts, and banners, but also with songbooks that are an integral part of the klapa audience. Many know the lyrics by heart, and it is not uncommon for fan groups to organize and travel together to performances. If you are coming from a distant place, it is recommended to check options for shared travel or organized bus tours. However, what you should not forget is timely booked
accommodation, especially if the concert falls on a weekend or during the summer season.
Another peculiarity worth highlighting is the regular presence of families and children at the concerts. This is not the case with all performers, but Tomislav Bralić's music creates an atmosphere that is completely appropriate and pleasant for all age groups. That is why you can often see parents singing and dancing with their children to songs that are part of their family heritage.
During the year 2025 / 2026, the audience also had the opportunity to witness special moments such as duets with young vocalists, guest appearances by local folklore ensembles, and even poetry recitations between musical numbers. Such elements show Bralić's openness to different art forms and his respect for culture in the broadest sense.
Those who want to fully experience the concert often choose the so-called "golden circle" or VIP sectors, which provide a better view of the stage and a special entrance. The prices of such tickets range on average from €30 to €50, depending on the location and configuration of the space. Standard tickets usually range between €20 and €35, but regardless of the price – all sectors guarantee a top-notch musical experience. If you choose VIP options, be sure to check if there is recommended
accommodation nearby, as additional benefits are often offered for guests in these sectors.
It is not uncommon for visitors to choose the same concert several times in different cities, aware that no performance is completely the same. And that is precisely where the secret of Tomislav Bralić's longevity and success lies – in the ability to give each event a special character, regardless of how many times a particular song has already been performed. His charisma, experience, and deep emotional connection with the audience make a musical magic happen anew every time.