From an early age, I was completely immersed in art and music. I explored pop music, singing, dancing, and performing — imitating everything from TV commercials to my favourite cartoon characters. I always knew I was meant to do something artistic.

I grew up in Sofia, Bulgaria, and was part of a vocal group with my closest friends. I wanted to attend the same music school they did, but to do that, I needed to learn an instrument. A friend who played guitar and my father’s love of rock music inspired me to take up classical guitar. Unlike other activities that came and went, my connection to the guitar only deepened over time. I realised this instrument was my way of expressing myself.

Initially, my parents—both scientists—were concerned about my choice. They hoped I would pursue a more conventional, stable career path. But as they saw how serious I was and how music defined my world, they began to understand and support me wholeheartedly. I’m incredibly grateful for their encouragement, which now, along with the guidance of my teachers and friends, continues to motivate me every step of the way.

Right now, I’m in my second year of an MA programme at the Royal Academy of Music in London. During my final year at the University of Music and Performing Arts Graz, my teachers sat me down and told me I needed to go to London, the heart of the musical world. Although I felt nervous, it has turned out to be the most rewarding journey of my life. The contacts I’ve made, the concert opportunities, and the prizes I’ve won have brought so many memorable moments.

Some of the highlights so far include being the first guitarist ever to perform at the Bach Fest Leipzig. The audience’s reaction was overwhelming—I received a standing ovation, and people even stopped me in the street afterwards to share their appreciation. Another major achievement was winning the prestigious New Elizabethan Award. I had entered this award when I was 16 but didn’t win back then. Winning it now has opened the door to my debut concert at the Wigmore Hall in 2025. Soon, I’ll also be recording an album with Linn Records as part of my Bicentenary Scholarship at the Royal Academy.

At the Circle Square concert, I’ll be performing a blend of Renaissance music and contemporary pieces inspired by the Elizabethan era. I’ll use two guitars for these performances, both provided by the Royal Academy.

🎼 One is a traditional guitar made by the legendary Brazilian guitar maker Sergio Abreu, who passed away a few years ago. This instrument has nylon strings, giving it a softer, more melancholic sound.

🎼 For contemporary pieces, I’ll play on a German-made Matthias Dammann guitar, which has a double-top design that creates a powerful, resonant sound.

🎼 I also play a seven-string guitar in my jazz band, which allows me to create unique soundscapes when connected to effects pedals and amplifiers.

🎼 Soon, I’ll have a custom Barrel Guitar, which will open up even more possibilities for performing Baroque music.

Performing at this level requires absolute honesty with myself, a commitment to fixing every mistake, and a deep dedication to the music. It’s not about personal gain, social life, or anything beyond the music itself. True success in this field means giving everything to the music. That’s the journey I’m on, and I don’t ever want it to end.