PERIĆ: IT IS IMPORTANT TO BELIEVE IN YOURSELF; SUCCESS COMES THROUGH EFFORT AND PERSISTENCE

BIJELJINA, MAY 3 /SRNA/ - Sixteen-year-old Đorđe Perić from Bijeljina, a world accordion champion, told young people to believe in themselves and their dreams, no matter how distant or difficult they may seem, emphasizing that success comes through hard work and persistence.

“It is important to do what you love and give your best to it, because only then does success have its true meaning,” Đorđe Perić said in an interview with SRNA. Perić said that becoming a world champion in accordion is a major challenge, as it requires a great deal of effort, discipline, and daily practice, with dedication being key. He plans to continue developing his path and raise the level of what he does. “Competitions at that level require exceptional technique, musicality, and adaptability, as well as mental strength to cope with stress and competition,” Perić said. He also emphasized that representing his country around the world is not only an honor for him but also a great responsibility that he carries with pride. In the under-18 category, Đorđe managed to win all the most important international competitions — the World Trophy, the World Cup, and PIF — as well as the oldest accordion festival in the United States, which has been held for 83 years. There, he recalled, he won first place in two categories — the junior under-18 category and the senior under-32 category. Victories at the World Trophy and World Cup earned him the title of world champion. He especially highlighted his win at the Russian Championship, which is considered one of the most prestigious and demanding accordion competitions in the world, as the Russian accordion school is regarded as the strongest globally. The awards he has won are a motivation for him to continue, as they are confirmation of his work and effort. Each award carries a special story and emotion, because behind it lie hours and hours of preparation and the support of people who believe in him. Although still young, he already has long and serious experience behind him, as preparations for such competitions take years and involve daily hours of practice, which he himself confirms. His achievements have enabled him to perform on stages most musicians only dream of, including the Berlin Philharmonic and the Queen Silvia Concert Hall in Sweden. At the age of 13, he performed with the Moscow Symphony Orchestra in Moscow, an experience he especially remembers. He has also performed in Shanghai with a Chinese string ensemble. There are many sacrifices involved, including going out, longer vacations, and free time, but the accordion and music are, as he stated, his life choice, and when you do what you love, everything becomes easier to endure. Family support is the most important factor, and without it, none of his success would have been possible. He emphasized that his father is his greatest role model and idol, but also his critic, as being a teacher is both an advantage and a challenge. "Support from family and school is also very important. It can sometimes be difficult, but when you have a goal and clearly know what you want, you find a way to fit everything together," Perić said. Đorđe Perić, who is only 16 years old, has so far taken part in more than 150 competitions. He said that every effort pays off when he steps on stage and presents his work. “Every competition brought new experiences and memories. Through music, I have met many friends around the world who share the same interests, but also the same passion and understanding for what we do,” Đorđe said.