Bregovic awarded French Order of Knight of Arts and Letters!

At a reception at the French embassy, Moro noted that Bregovic is an illustrious figure on the international music scene, particularly in France, which he regularly visits and where, for 25 years now, he has been making a large contribution to inciting interest in Balkan folk music.

Speaking about his career, the ambassador said that he has collaborated with countless musicians and singers from all geographic regions and musical horizons, at the same time highlighting the essential contribution of Roma to music worldwide.

Bregovic's latest album Champagne for Gypsies is a true testament to this celebration and joy, she said.

To all those who are excluded in some way - such as Roma - Bregovic gives the opportunity to express themselves in a way that is equal, which is a great treasure, the French ambassador said, adding that the people of France thank him for defending those ideas.

Foto: Tanjug/Sava Radovanović

Born in Sarajevo to a Serb mother and Croat father, Bregovic entered the world of music by learning to play the violin, but soon became attracted to the guitar and rock and roll, the ambassador said.

Foto: Tanjug/Sava Radovanović

Simultaneously with beginning his studies of philosophy and sociology, he founded the band Bijelo dugme - which achieved enormous success with its 1974 debut album - and went on to collaborate with film director Emir Kusturica.

Composing the soundtrack to the film Queen Margot was a significant moment in Bregovic's life, the ambassador said, adding that in 1997 he decided to primarily turn to performing original compositions with the Orchestra for Weddings and Funerals.

Foto: Tanjug/Sava Radovanović

Thanking for the order, which Ambassador Moro presented to him on behalf of the French minister of culture and communication, Bregovic said that he comes from a culture that is tiny compared to that of France.

Knowing that this great culture can award an order to someone such as us is a big thing, Bregovic added.

The reception at the French embassy was attended by many public figures.

(Telegraf.rs / Tanjug)