The renowned jazz pianist and composer passed away on July 14 in Lyon, France, where he lived for several decades. Mario Stantchev was born in Bulgaria. He graduated from the National School of Music “Lyubomir Pipkov” and the National Academy of Music “Professor Pancho Vladigerov”, also known under its former name The Bulgarian State Conservaroire.

He left his homeland at the age of 30, as he was banned from travelling abroad by the totalitarian government. Since then, he has lived and worked in France, where he actively gives concerts and teaches. Mario Stanchev is the founder of the jazz department of the Lyon Music Academy. As a performer, he participated in all the prestigious jazz forums in Europe. He presented his French projects in Bulgaria several times. At every opportunity, he invited the Bulgarian musicians he worked with to France. Those who were fortunate to communicate with the talented musician will remember his kindness and a good sense of humor. The last concert of Mario Stantchev New Bulgarian Trio was in January this year at the Lyon Opera House.