With its architectural grandeur the Palace of Culture in Pernik is one of the symbols of the city. For 60 years it has been a spiritual centre for the citizens, a place of communication between world cultures and traditions. Many have crossed its threshold to enter the world of music, dance, and world art. People also use the opportunity to develop their talents in various professional and amateur forms of training. The careers of a number of famous Bulgarian artists have started here. The palace offers a stage to musicians, poets, writers, artists and intellectuals.

Head of the Pernik Palace of Culture, Petio Fetfov, told us more about past and future initiatives:

“On February 10, 1957 the building of the Palace of Culture opened. It is unique, but the bands that perform in it are even more unique. Our wind orchestra was founded in 1902 and we are very proud of it. It takes part in all cultural events in the city and has toured many European countries. For many years conductor had been Hristo Tonev, and the current is Trifon Trifonov. We are also proud of the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, which enriches the musical life of our city. It was established in 1971 by Raycho Hristov and the band has performed in Germany, The Netherlands, Norway and Greece. The band is popular in the whole of Bulgaria. We also have a renowned folk band that has existed for the past 60 years. The Graovska Mladost Ensemble for Folk Songs and Dances has won many awards: gold diploma from Portugal, diplomas from various festivals in Europe. It has had tours in Europe and North America. Our folk bands often perform to Bulgarians abroad. Less than a month ago we performed to our compatriots in the village of Zvonce - a village inhabited by Bulgarians that remained outside the borders after the Treaty of Neuilly (1920). We often have tours in the Republic of Macedonia.”

“The Ivan Topalov choir also works in the palace. It was established in 1987 and is named after its first conductor. The choir has participated in many concerts and last year had a successful tour in Italy. We also have a municipal school of arts. More than 100 children study playing musical instruments - piano, guitar, violin and more. Interest is high as the palace organizes a contest for musicians. This year it takes place on April 28, 29, and 30th. Young performers from across the country as well as guests from neighbouring Macedonia and Serbia will also take part. We also traditionally organize the November Music Days. Last year the forum opened with a concert by world famous pianist Iva Vaglenova. She lives in Paris, but her musical career started in the Pernik Palace of Culture. This is one of the names who have brought international fame to Bulgaria. Jazz singer Marinella Pashova also came from London especially for the 60th anniversary. Popular folk singer Guna Ivanova had also worked here, as well as one of the best accordionists in Bulgaria - Ivan Ivanov. Brilliant folk singer Kircho Metodiev and many others have also worked here.”

The Wind Orchestra at the Pernik Palace of Culture and opera prima Elena Mehandzhiiska will have a concert on April 21. One can also find the program of the palace on its website.

English: Alexander Markov

Photos: private archive