Musical celebrations scheduled in Bulgaria and North Macedonia

Several musical events are scheduled in late October, highlighting jazz and national traditions in Bulgaria and North Macedonia.

In Varna, Bulgaria, the Varna State Opera will host a symphonic concert on October 29, conducted by Stefan Boyadzhiev. The program features pianist Martin Yovkov performing George Gershwin’s ‘Piano Concerto in F’, which blends classical forms with jazz rhythms. The concert also includes Bulgarian compositions such as Veselin Stoyanov’s ‘Festive Overture’ and Alexander Raychev’s ballet suite ‘Haydukashka Pesen’.

In North Macedonia, the National Jazz Orchestra will hold a jubilee concert on October 28 at the National Opera and Ballet to honor the 40-year career of trombonist, arranger, and composer Sashko Nikolovski. Conducted by Gian Emin, the performance will feature Nikolovski’s original compositions and arrangements, alongside works by other Macedonian authors. The event celebrates Nikolovski’s extensive contributions to the local music scene and his various ensemble collaborations.