Federation of Croatian Societies of Milwaukee Wisconsin | Hrvatska Središnjica Opčne Milwaukee Wisconsin
About Milwaukee Croatian Tamburitzans and Graničari
Milwaukee Croatian Tamburitzans
Founded in 1985, the Milwaukee CFU Tamburitzans was established under the direction of Patsy Lucas with a clear and heartfelt vision: to create a welcoming environment where individuals of all backgrounds could come together to celebrate and preserve Croatian heritage through music and dance. From its beginning, the organization has been dedicated to fostering cultural pride, community, and artistic excellence.
Milwaukee CFU Tamburitzans (MCT) became a home for many performers. The group changed its name to Milwaukee Croatian Tamburitzans after welcoming members of the American Croatian Silver Strings when that group disbanded. By embracing these musicians and dancers, MCT strengthened its commitment to ensuring that the rich traditions of Croatian tamburitza music would continue to thrive in the Milwaukee community.
Graničari
Following a special alumni performance at the 10th Anniversary Milwaukee CFU Tamburitzans Concert, Patsy Lucas further expanded opportunities for continued involvement by forming Graničari. This ensemble was composed primarily of alumni from the Milwaukee Croatian Tamburitzans, offering former members a way to remain active in performing and celebrating their heritage. The timing was especially meaningful, as the Adult Festival was being held in Las Vegas that year, providing a memorable stage for this new chapter.
Through generations of performers, Milwaukee CFU Tamburitzans remains committed to preserving Croatian culture, building lifelong friendships, and sharing the joy of music and dance with the broader community.