On November 9, one of the halls of Trakia Ensemble in Plovdiv will host the traditional masterclass "With Kichka Savova’s Songs". The event is organized by the Kichka Savova Foundation, chaired by Stefka Zdravkova, daughter of the renowned Thracian singer. The masterclass will be held under the mentorship of Dr. Darina Slavcheva- a renowned folk singer and lecturer at the National Academy of Music "Prof. Pancho Vladigerov". The participants will learn an unfamiliar song from the rich repertoire of the unforgettable performer of Thracian folklore, Kichka Savova. They are to give a concert at 3.00 pm. The sessions, as well as the concert, are free to attend and usually attract great interest from both professionals and lovers of Bulgarian folklore.

''The masterclass ''With Kichka Savova' Songs'' will take place for the fourth consecutive year. This year, it is dedicated to the 90th anniversary of Kichka Savova's birth'', Darina Slavcheva told Radio Bulgaria. ''I have the pleasure and the opportunity to lead this masterclass. The children who participate in the masterclass are laureates of the 13th edition of the international folklore festival ''With Kichka Savova’s Songs'' which takes place in her native village of Sladun near the town of Svilengrad. This year, it was held on April 20 and 21. Six children from different parts of Bulgaria are participating in this masterclass''.

The masterclass takes place in three parts: an introduction to the work and life of the renowned Bulgarian folk singer, learning a song from Kichka Savova’s repertoire that is not so widely known, and a concert, explains Darina Slavcheva. This year, songs from the collection published by the foundation to support those studying folk singing will also be included. These songs have been arranged for voice and piano by composer Georgi Andreev. 

Each of the laureates will receive their gold medal from the competition. Professional instrumentalists from Trakia Ensemble’s orchestra will accompany the performances during the concert.

• Georgi Andreev presents a collection of folk songs from Thrace

Learning about the creative path of renowned singers is just as valuable as mastering lesser-known songs, says Darina Slavcheva:

"I believe that when studying the biography of a performer, a young artist can be inspired and follow their example. My personal memories of Kichka Savova are connected to her kindness and her goodwill towards young performers. I witnessed the shaping of her personal repertoire, as well as her respect for both professional musicians and amateurs. The performer is a benchmark not only on stage, but also in life'', said Darina Slavcheva.

See also:

• Kichka Savova's songs "come to life" in a virtual national tour