Bulgarian Music Society Turns 15!
by Nelly Tsoneva/Krassi Genov
Artistic directors Ivo Kalchev and Jeni Maneva credit their success to teamwork. For them, music is not just a passion but a calling that guides the Society’s concert programs, repertoire selection, and collaborations with talented musicians.
From the Start
“The journey began in New York,” reflects Kalchev. “Two Bulgarian Juilliard graduates approached Pavlina Dokovska at the Bulgarian Consulate with an idea to organize a concert series. Without an instrument, they launched a campaign, raised funds, and purchased a Steinway piano. That’s how their concerts began—three years before ours.”
As the vision took shape, Dr. Lazarov, a dignified and generous Bulgarian, learned about their efforts and spoke with Assen Assenov from the Bulgarian Cultural Center of Washington DC. He suggested organizing similar gatherings at the Bulgarian Embassy, where people could come together and listen to music.
“However, the embassy also lacked an instrument,” Kalchev recalls. “I offered to find a grand piano, and Dr. Lazarov generously agreed to cover the cost. I discovered a stunning seven-foot Kawai concert piano during a sale in Baltimore. It cost $10,000, and Dr. Lazarov wrote the check. That piano became the cornerstone of our concerts, marking the Society's beginning in 2009.”
A Growing Community and Unique Identity
The early concerts quickly became a gathering place for the community, drawing large and enthusiastic crowds. “It wasn’t just about the music,” Kalchev says. “People wanted to meet other Bulgarians, socialize with the ambassador, and enjoy a glass of wine. Dr. Lazarov insisted that wine should always be part of the gatherings. Even after his passing, this tradition lives on as a tribute to his memory.”
Establishing a unique identity in Washington’s vibrant cultural scene was no small challenge. Yet the Bulgarian Music Society has thrived for 15 years, offering a tapestry of experiences with musicians, poets, artists, and ensembles from around the world. It delivers unique performances that resonate with its audience.
Jeni Maneva reflects on the Society's diverse audience: “What’s fascinating is that our audience is never the same. Each concert draws a mix of people, including Americans invited by the performers. We have a core group of Bulgarian attendees and a larger circle of supporters from my own friends!”
Kalchev adds: “Especially when Jeni performs, the audience becomes incredibly international. Our programs are just as diverse—classical works are essential, but we also feature many Bulgarian compositions. There’s a bit of everything: opera, operettas, Broadway hits, poetry, dance, and cross-genre collaborations. This variety ensures there’s something for everyone.”
Memorable Performances
Every concert feels personal and unique. The mix of genres—from classical and jazz to folk and Broadway—offers an enchanting musical experience. Kalchev recounts: “One of the highlights was when we combined classical music with folklore. Two bassoonists performed alongside a dancer interpreting Bulgarian folk traditions. This enchanting blend of classical music and folklore culminated in a lively Bulgarian horo dance, leaving the audience captivated. Such a fusion is rarely found elsewhere!”
Maneva reflects on another special moment:“We organized a concert in a modern church on Martin Luther King Boulevard. From the outside, it looks like a library, but inside, it’s a stunning space. The program included an orchestra, a choir, and an organ performance. It was incredible—so many people came!”
Over the years, the Bulgarian Music Society has organized more than 60 concerts featuring over 400 performers. Its repertoire includes iconic composers like Bach, Verdi, and Gershwin and Bulgarian greats like Pancho Vladigerov and Dobri Hristov. Performances often include unique elements, such as poetry recitals with piano accompaniment and digital sand art projected on-screen.
Kalchev notes:“These aren’t programs you’ll find in major concert halls. We marked the 100th anniversary of Boris Christoff with a concert by his student Genko Genchev and organized a remarkable performance by the legendary Theodosi Spassov. These original, unconventional programs set us apart.”
The Road Ahead
As the Society enters its 16th season, new plans and dreams are on the horizon. The directors aim to continue offering a diverse array of programs that captivate audiences and foster a deep appreciation for music.
Kalchev concludes:“We strive to offer something for everyone’s taste. This recipe for variety and inclusivity has been the key to our success. Our mix of genres—classical, folk, jazz, and more—is truly unique. We’re proud to create experiences that touch the hearts of our audience and bring them closer to the magic of music.”
The Bulgarian Music Society has become a cultural beacon, uniting people through music and building a prestigious reputation. Its success is a testament to the passion, creativity, and dedication of its artistic directors. With their unwavering dedication and vision, the Bulgarian Music Society will continue to inspire audiences and celebrate the universal power of music for generations to come.
