Mario Lončar, born in 1989 in Koprivnica, is one of the leading trumpeters in Croatia. He began his musical journey at an early age and over the years has become recognized as an outstanding performer, pedagogue, and artist. Since 2016, he has held the position of principal trumpeter of the Zagreb Philharmonic Orchestra, and since 2023 he has served as an assistant at the Trumpet Department of the Academy of Music, University of Zagreb. His work encompasses not only orchestral music but also solo and chamber performances in ensembles such as Ad Gloriam Brass and BC Brass, with which he has achieved numerous successes, including recording the CD Opera Brass in 2021, as well as performances in Indonesia and Azerbaijan.

As a soloist, Lončar has distinguished himself on many prestigious occasions. In 2024, he performed with the Zagreb Philharmonic as part of the Blue Cycle under the baton of maestro Ivor Bolton, performing the Trumpet Concerto for trumpet, strings, and continuo by Johann Baptist Georg Neruda. He performed the same program on tour in Slavonia. In 2023, he collaborated with the Croatian Radiotelevision Tamburitza Orchestra, performing Jurica Hrenić’s Concerto grosso for trumpet, piano, percussion, and tamburitza orchestra, which he recorded that same year for the archive of Croatian Radio. His solo appearances also include collaborations with the Zadar Chamber Orchestra and the Symphonic Wind Orchestra of the Croatian Armed Forces, where he delivered notable performances.

He graduated from the Academy of Music in Zagreb in 2013 under the mentorship of Associate Professor Marin Zokić. During his studies, he demonstrated his talent by participating in various competitions. He won numerous awards, including first prizes at the national competition in 2010 and at international trumpet competitions in Ohrid and Belgrade. His competitive success culminated in reaching the final of the international competition in Ulm in 2012. During his studies, he was already engaged as a permanent external collaborator with the Croatian Radiotelevision Symphony Orchestra and the Komedija Theatre.

Lončar’s artistic activities also include numerous performances at prestigious Croatian festivals such as Split Summer Festival, the Chamber Music Festival in Čakovec, Like Lika Festival, and Osor Musical Evenings. His international engagements include performances at Teatro Miramar in Cuba, within the SiBRASS cycle in Ljubljana, and at the International Composers’ Tribune in Belgrade. His performing career reflects exceptional dedication and professionalism, placing him among the most respected trumpeters in the region.

As a pedagogue, Mario Lončar makes a significant contribution to the development of young musicians. He regularly gives seminars and lectures and served as a jury member at the Slovenian National Competition TEMSIG in 2023. In recent years, he has held seminars in Koprivnica and Sinj, as well as within the Brass Academy in Grožnjan. His pedagogical work is further enriched by experiences gained at masterclasses with renowned international musicians such as Reinhold Friedrich, Jon Faddis, Gábor Tarkövi, and others.

Mario Lončar leaves a lasting mark on the musical community, whether through his performances, collaborations, or educational work. His dedication to music and constant pursuit of excellence serve as an inspiration to musicians of all generations.