The Pioneer Philharmonic was established in 1952 by great Bulgarian conductor Prof. Vladi Simeonov. Lyubomir Denev Jr. is today’s conductor of the formation. The latter had even ceased its existing for a while after the death of its founder, just to recall. Former members and the family of Prof. Simeonov restored it later on, alongside the establishment of a foundation by his name which now takes care of the organization, rehearsals etc. About a month ago the young musicians had a really successful concert within the Varna Summer International Music Festival 2016.

“We were really happy to be invited to participate in Young Euro Classic which is among the major youth music forums worldwide,” says Lyubomir Denev Jr. “It is held in the period August 17 – September 3 in Berlin’s Konzerthaus, one of the largest city concert halls. Great Svetlin Rusev will perform with his violin the Vardar Rhapsody for Violin and Orchestra and a Song for Violin – both by Pantscho Wladigeroff. Cello player Emilia Baranovska, also known worldwide will present two French works – Song for Cello and Orchestra by Vincent d’Indy and Allegro Appassionato by Camille Saint-Sans."

“We all loved that piece from the time of Prof. Vladi SImeonov" CEO of the Prof. Vladi Simeonov Foundation and a former member of Pioneer, Associate Prof. Alexander Peshev says. "I am really happy with the passion and enthusiasm of our young fellows here – and the Varna Summer success proves that. I am also happy with the chance to present our works on prestigious international stages. The idea for the participation in Young Euro Classic was discussed since last year. Emilia Baranovska made the contact with the organizers who were willing to invite us. An audition came next, followed by serious rehearsals. This participation means a lot of responsibility taken.”

The orchestra is part of the formations of the National Palace of Children under the guidance of the ministry of education and culture. “We are thankful to that state institution for the support for the Berlin-held concert,” Associate Prof. Peshev says. Here are more details on the forum, once again given by Lyubomir Denev Jr.:

“The artistic company that we find ourselves into is truly challenging, if I may say so. The Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester is on the list, followed by one from the Arab Emirates, a Romanian-Moldovan youth symphonic orchestra etc. It is impossible to name them all, but the best formations of Germany, France, Norway and Latvia have been invited. The conductors are also famous names from the world stages…” Lyubomir Denev Jr. says in conclusion.

English version: Zhivko Stanchev