Music and More: Film Magic for Piano Duo Four-Hands

On Friday, January 23, 2026, the Bulgarian Musical Society in Washington presented an original and deeply moving event at the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria — "Music and More: Film Magic for Piano Duo Four-Hands" with Ivo Kalchev and Tanya Tachkova. For the audience, this performance was stunning! It is truly possible to play from memory and by feeling. But to see how four hands position themselves next to each other in absolute simultaneity, to achieve harmony in every decisive strike on the keys or that "sharpness" that emphasizes the culmination of the dramatic effect, is something incredible in its impact.

Ivo Kalchev, known as a brilliant piano artist with "impressive technique," an excellent educator and dedicated teacher of students, professor of piano, head of the Music Department and piano division at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., in combination with Tanya Tachkova, who is highly acclaimed by critics for her solo performances and concerts in the United States and around the world with a doctorate in musical arts from Stony Brook University and a teacher in New York, the two build with trust and creative experience a new dramaturgical concept, moreover realized in an unusually short time — to dedicate themselves to the magic of film music.

Their repertoire included a rich palette of popular film titles such as "The Great Dictator" (1940) by Charlie Chaplin — a genius in the art of film, from which we heard "Hungarian Dance No. 2 in D minor" and "Hungarian Dance No. 5 in F-sharp minor" by Johannes Brahms (1833-1897). Music from the film "Schindler's List" (1993) by composer John Williams, who also wrote the music for "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" (1982). We heard the same theme in the film "True Lies" (1994) as well.

"Libertango" also resonated — the most famous work by Astor Piazzolla, which was used by director Roman Polanski in the film "Frantic" (1988), where Harrison Ford dances to Piazzolla's music, as well as in British director Sally Potter's film "The Tango Lesson" (1997).

The audience held its breath when the popular tango, created in 1935 by singer and composer Carlos Gardel, was performed in Martin Brest's film "Scent of a Woman" starring Al Pacino, which brought him the Oscar award.

We recalled "Titanic" — James Cameron's hit film, where the song "My Heart Will Go On" is the main soundtrack with Celtic motifs, emphasizing the tragic love story.

Or our familiar animated characters Tom and Jerry with the performance of "Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2" by Franz Liszt in "The Cat Concerto" (1947).

I really wanted to hear the first music entirely composed by a famous musician for the film "Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid" by singer Bob Dylan, but instead I learned something more from the film "The Legend of 1900," whose title in Italian literally sounds like "The Legend of the Pianist on the Ocean" (1998), whose music was composed by the great Ennio Morricone, who created legendary compositions for cinema and lived to the age of 91.

According to him, in every art, the heart is the best advisor and good taste will always be fashionable!

Thanks to the wonderful piano duo Ivo Kalchev and Tanya Tachkova, we were drawn into a musical fresco of melodies and stories, delighted by such a familiar cinematic experience. Images and characters from many beloved films came alive in us with an amazing thematic unity and a very original musical interpretation.

It was as if the entire concert was some kind of artistic game, consciously evoked by the piano duo, to make us feel satisfied with this most genuine and living music.

© Nelly Tsoneva, Krassi Genov

Washington DC, January 2026

Dancing Across Borders: Bulgaria, Spain, America

On November 14th, the Bulgarian Embassy in Washington hosted the second concert of the Bulgarian Music Society's 17th consecutive concert season. The evening became a memorable cultural event that united two passionate dance traditions and captivated the audience.

Magic in an Intimate Space

The hall barely accommodated everyone wanting to attend this unique performance. Many guests stood around the improvised small square in the center of the salon, specially prepared for the dances. "This concert underscores our commitment to cultural dialogue and the unifying power of art," shared Ivo Kalchev, the society's artistic director.

Ancient Rhythms Come Alive

When the nestinari rhythms echoed in candlelight, Desi Yordanov appeared—a master of Bulgarian folk dances. Dressed in authentic costume, she swept into the whirlwind of ancient Bulgarian dance with such grace that the audience seemed to hold its breath.

Desi Yordanov is a professional performer, choreographer, and director of folklore ensembles and groups who has dedicated her career to preserving and promoting Bulgarian folk traditions. Her choreography of Bulgarian folk dances set to Beethoven's 9th Symphony was captured in the unique film "Dancing Joy," for which she received a gold medal at the Indice Dance Festival in 2019.

The program included Shopi dances, a Pirin bouquet, and Thracian teases—each evoking the aroma, expanse, and exotic beauty of Bulgaria. With elegant steps and precise technique, Yordanov took the audience on a journey through different regions of the country, revealing the richness of Bulgarian folklore.

Fiery Flamenco

Mariana Gato Duran's performance began stunningly and breathtakingly with her magnificent dress (bata de cola). She was like a flying bird, freezing in expressive and passionate interplay of body and hands, reminiscent of those gypsy melodies filled with feelings of love and sorrow. The atmosphere plunged into a mix of fire and pain.

Mariana, of Bulgarian origin, has been devoted to Spanish dance since she was six years old. She trained under the best masters of the Andalusian folk genre and has danced on stages in Barcelona and Madrid. In Washington, she has performed with the legendary group Gipsy Kings, as well as on their U.S. tour, establishing herself as one of the region's leading flamenco performers.

In her traditional magnificent costumes, Gato Duran danced with great enthusiasm befitting her artistic nature. Her performance demonstrated the perfect technique and emotional depth that characterize authentic flamenco.

Dialogue Between Cultures

The meeting of Bulgarian folklore with flamenco at first glance seemed improvised, but it revealed deep parallels between the two traditions. Both are rooted in ancient rhythms, both carry within them joy and melancholy, both speak the language of passion and authenticity. The beautiful guitar improvisations by Miguel Perez (Miguelito) complemented the evening's unique atmosphere, turning it into a friendly "competition" filled with passion and energy. His performances served as a bridge between the two traditions, emphasizing the universal language of music.

The Power of Art to Unite

The concert's motto, "Dancing Across Borders: Bulgaria, Spain, America," reminded all present of art's power to build bridges and unite cultures. We watched the magic of these whirling dancing performers, and everyone discovered for themselves what richness and talent are preserved in folk traditions.

As always, the Bulgarian Music Society proved its unique ability to create programs that are simultaneously diverse and deeply connected—like a conversation between past and present, between different cultures and traditions.

The evening was not simply a concert, but a celebration of culture—a synthesis of dance, music, and tradition. A memory that will remain long in the souls of those present who had the opportunity to experience the beauty of this cultural fusion.

© November 14, 2024, Washington by Neli Tsoneva/Krasi Genov

Scarlett Zheng Captivates Washington Audience

Last Friday, the Bulgarian Music Society welcomed audiences to an unforgettable evening at the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria, featuring Chinese pianist Scarlett Zheng (Xinyue Zheng)—a rising artist whose growing international career is already drawing well-deserved attention.

Born in Nanjing, China, Scarlett Zheng began studying piano at the age of five. Today, she is completing her master’s degree at the renowned Eastman School of Music in the United States, where she studies under acclaimed pianist and professor Alexander Kobrin. With a blend of sensitivity, technique, and expressive maturity, Zheng continues to captivate audiences on stages around the world.

The concert featured works by two great Romantic composers: Ludwig van Beethoven and Robert Schumann. The first half of the program opened with Beethoven’s Sonata in D Major, Op. 10, No. 3—a dynamic and expressive work full of contrast and color. After a brief intermission, Zheng performed Schumann’s Carnaval, Op. 9, a vivid character piece filled with imagined figures and inner dialogues. She brought emotional depth to each vignette, shifting seamlessly between the introspective Eusebius and the fiery Florestan and highlighting the lyrical and dramatic elements with remarkable nuance.

With a performance that combined technical mastery and emotional insight, Zheng delivered an interpretation in which stylistic finesse and personal expression moved hand in hand.

Zheng’s artistic maturity is underpinned by an impressive record of competition and concert experience. Her most notable accolades include:

·      First Prize at the 8th International Young Artists Competition in Nice, Côte d’Azur

·      Second Prize at the International Piano Competition for Young Performers (2017)

·      Third Prize and the Audience Award at the MostArts Festival (2017), where she also performed Mozart’s Piano Concerto in D Minor, K. 466 with orchestra

·      First Prize at the 2024 Lancaster International Piano Festival Competition in Pennsylvania, USA

In addition to these achievements, Zheng is a regular presence at renowned festivals such as the Vivace International Music Festival and Chautauqua Music Festival, and she has given solo recitals in distinguished venues including Hatch Hall at Eastman School of Music, Muyin Concert Hall in Nanjing, and other concert halls across China and the U.S.

The evening reaffirmed the mission of the Bulgarian Music Society: to connect tradition with the new voices shaping the future of classical music.

Scarlett Zheng leaves a lasting impression with her poised stage presence and musical depth. We wish her continued inspiration, new artistic horizons, and the recognition she deserves on the world’s most prestigious stages.

by Nelly Tsoneva/ Krassi Genov

Art is Peace: Bridging Harmony Through Art

On March 21, 2025, the Bulgarian Music Society hosted a special spring concert at the Bulgarian Embassy in Washington, DC, entitled "Art is Peace." The concert captivated the audience with its depth and originality. Inspired performances by pianists Jeni Maneva and Ivo Kalchev created an immersive atmosphere, beautifully complemented by the artistic magic of Julia Tasheva, actress, puppeteer, and sand artist.

Actress Lilia Slavova enriched the experience with poetic recitations of works by Petrarca, Robert Burns, and Simona Assenova. The compelling interplay of music, poetry, and visual art established a profound dramaturgical connection among compositions by Bill Evans, Debussy, Prokofiev, Dobrinka Tabakova, and Schumann, reinforcing the universal notion that art stands as an antithesis to war and an enduring symbol of peace.

The concert emphasized art’s unique power to touch hearts, foster empathy, and open dialogues about a more peaceful world. The closing performances of Bill Evans’ "Peace Piece" and Jon Fosse's reading of "Art is Peace" left the audience deeply moved, with an emotional resonance that lingers long after the event has concluded.

"Art is Peace" reminded everyone present that the true purpose of art lies in transcending boundaries and creating a shared language of humanity.

March 22, 2025

Washington DC

Nelly Tsoneva/ Krassi Genov

A Musical Portrait of Bulgaria

On January 31, 2025, the Bulgarian Musical Society held its first concert of the year at the Embassy of Bulgaria in Washington, D.C. Staying true to its tradition—offering something for every musical taste—the event once again captivated the audience with a diverse program, rich atmosphere, and deep emotions.

Once again, the grand piano resounded in its full power, illuminated by the virtuoso performance of Georgi Lekov. The young Bulgarian pianist, possessing remarkable technique and profound musical sensitivity, drew from the keys a rich palette of sounds—from ethereal delicacy to thunderous expressiveness. Every tone, every nuance intertwined into a musical enchantment that mesmerized the hearts of those present.

The program was diverse yet deeply connected—like a conversation between the past and present of Bulgarian music. It featured works by Pancho Vladigerov, Lyubomir Pipkov, Marin Goleminov, Svetoslav Obretenov, as well as pieces by a newer generation of composers—Alexander Vladigerov, Krasimir Kyurchiyski, Milcho Leviev, Krasimir Taskov, Tsvetan Dobrev, and Yordan Goshev.

The audience was spellbound—the gentle breath of the Bulgarian mountains and murmuring rivers came alive in "Ruchenitsa" by Pancho Vladigerov; "Nani Mi, Nani, Damyancho" by Lyubomir Pipkov transported everyone into a nostalgic reverie; "Dilyano, Dilbero" by Alexander Vladigerov shimmered in its exquisite variations, while "Polegnala e Todora" by Krasimir Kyurchiyski resonated like a deep, meditative prayer. The evening reached its grand culmination with "Triumph of the Bells" by Vasil Kazandzhiev, whose majestic chimes provided a ceremonial and powerful finale to this extraordinary musical night.

Georgi Lekov masterfully wove folk intonations and contemporary harmonies, crafting a pianistic image of Bulgaria—a country of rhythm, light, and deep musical memory.

Currently, Georgi Lekov is a doctoral student and assistant at the University of Connecticut, residing in New York City. Dedicated to contemporary piano art, he has participated in prestigious international premieres in the USA, Canada, Europe, and Turkey and has won numerous competition awards in Bulgaria, Romania, Cyprus, and Belgium.

This piano recital in Washington will remain long in the hearts of those present—not only as a display of technical mastery but as an emotional journey through some of the most brilliant pages of Bulgarian musical culture.

It is no coincidence that Ivo Kalchev, the artistic director of the Bulgarian Musical Society, emphasized that the exhibition by Dilyana Kirova—featuring paintings inspired by Asen's Fortress, the Nestinari fire dancers, the men's ritual dance in Kalofer on Epiphany, and the grace of Bulgarian rhythmic gymnasts—complemented the musical evening with a sense of warmth, sensitivity, and the magic of Bulgarian art.

This evening was not just a concert but a celebration of Bulgarian culture—a synthesis of music, tradition, and art. A memory that will linger long in the souls of those who were there and experienced the beauty of Bulgarian piano music.

January 31, 2025

Nelly Tsoneva

Washington DC

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 Bulgarian Music Society’s concert programs, repertoire selection, and collaborations with talented musicians.

From the Start

Fifteen years ago, as the vision was taking shape, Dr. Lazarov, a generous member of the Bulgarian diaspora, learned about our efforts to kickstart this project and suggested that concerts would take place at the Bulgarian Embassy, where people could come together and listen to music.

“However, the embassy lacked an instrument,” Kalchev recalls. “I offered to find a grand piano, and Dr. Lazarov generously agreed to help us cover the cost. I discovered a stunning seven-foot Kawai concert piano in Baltimore, and this piano became the cornerstone of our concerts since 2009.”

A Growing Community and Unique Identity

The early concerts quickly became a meeting point 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 groups from around the world. It delivers unique performances that resonate with the 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 many invited by the performers. We have a core group of Bulgarian attendees and a larger circle of supporters from all over DC!”

Kalchev adds: “Our audience is incredibly international, and 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

Each 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 at a modern church on Martin Luther King Boulevard. It looks like a library from the outside, 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 to watch!”

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 aim is 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 blend of variety and inclusivity has been the key to our success. Our mix of genres—classical, folk, jazz, and more—is 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. Thanks to 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.

The Songs of the Other

by Nelly Tsoneva/Krassi Genov

An unforgettable evening unfolded as the Bulgarian Music Society presented "The Songs of the Other," a concert celebrating the rich interplay of cultures and traditions. Featuring the captivating Duo Sildasan — mezzo-soprano Daniela Tosic and marimba virtuoso Sylvia Zakarian — the event was a testament to the universal power of music.

"This concert emphasizes our commitment to complete freedom of repertoire, intertwining cultures to explore the world of music," reflected Ivo Kalchev, the society’s artistic director.

The theme resonated deeply with the audience, as Ambassador Georgi Panayotov noted that the venue could barely accommodate the many admirers of polyphonic art.

Sylvia Zakarian, an Armenian born in Bulgaria, shared her perspective: "Our nations have long been connected through challenging historical moments. That is why our songs carry sadness, joy, longing, and a spirit of rebellion." She highlighted how Armenian songs have been preserved through the work of Komitas Vardapet, included in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register, and through composers like Alan Hovhannes Chakmakjian, whose handwritten scores the duo discovered at the Armenian Cultural Foundation.

Daniela Tosic opined that we often ask the question, "Whose song is this?" as explored in Adela Peeva's film. Although a song is inseparable from the identity of a particular nation, it often transcends the borders of one Balkan country or another, as our joys and sorrows are so alike. "We share not only physical resemblances but also a similar soulfulness."

The program featured Neapolitan songs by Pasquale Tassone and Nikola Radan’s evocative "Byzantine Blue," capturing the despair and hope of those fleeing Constantinople in 1493.

In the presence of composer George Tantchev, Sylvia Zakarian performed a solo marimba concert piece — a virtuosic work inspired by folk music from the Shopluk region in Western Bulgaria. With its rich timbres, intricate ornamentation, and demanding technical challenges, this elegant composition was warmly received by the audience.

Cheerful selections like Georgi Tanchev’s "Ergen Dyado" and "Reche Mama" brought a lighthearted close to the evening, delighting listeners with humor and charm. These folk-inspired works, popularized by The Mystery of Bulgarian Voices, reminded everyone of the vibrant soulfulness of Balkan music.

November 22, 2024

Washington DC