Peter Ralchev is a true celebrity among modern-day accordionists. A top class performer, he is also known for the innovative style he created in conformity with the specifics of folklore tradition.

With his masterful improvisations and brilliant technique Peter Ralchev paints pictures out of sound – a reflection of his sensibility as a musician. His very first appearances earned him popularity and acclaim in the country and abroad. Many young accordionists follow his instrumental guidelines in various genres: folklore, world music, classical, jazz. 

Around a month ago Peter Ralchev turned 60. He owes his musical flair of juggling with different styles to his classical education at the National School of Music and Dance Art in Plovdiv, where, while still a student in 1977, he won first prize at the young talents competition in Chirpan.

In an interview for Radio Bulgaria, the celebrated accordion player says:

“We used to have a small accordion at home, a gift from friends of my parents. A cousin of mine also played, and there was always folk music playing at our house.  After the music school in Pazardzhik, I took part in different competitions, and started at the music school in Plovdiv. There I met violinist Georgi Yanev and we started playing folklore music together in which we both had an interest. We built a repertoire together and things got off the ground.”

The way to a future partnership between the two virtuosos was paved by the orchestra they founded – Orpheus. In his musical career Peter Ralchev has performed with renowned Bulgarian soloists and orchestras: Ivo Papazov-Ibryama, Theodosii Spassov, Stoyan Yankulov-Stundzhi, Peyo Peev, Yildiz Ibrahimova etc. During his many tours and appearances at festivals in USA, Canada, Germany, Russia, Hungary, France and elsewhere he has played together with a great many performers from abroad.

“Studying the accordion has many aspects, and brings the performer in contact with different genres, enriching musical culture,” the famed musician goes on to say. “Meeting different musicians is such a pleasure and challenge, especially if they are from a different genre, and have a different vision. That is how intriguing projects are born. Every encounter with an audience which appreciates this kind of music is thrilling.”

For some time, Peter has been performing on stage with the instrumental trio Ralchenitsa, in which he performs together with Atanas Ourkouzounov, guitar and flutist from Japan Mie Ogura. He says he plays to a foreign and to a Bulgarian audience with equal inspiration:

“There are so many new things I still want to perform,” he says. “I am happy to see that my work has been appreciated by my fellow students of the accordion. I would like to wish them all a lot of success. In the “musical cosmos” we each have a place with the music of Bulgaria.”