History

Our History

Professional Folklore Ensemble “Strandja” was founded in 1965 with the aim of researching, preserving, processing and popularizing the musical, singing, dancing and verbal folklore of Southeastern Bulgaria.

The ensemble is composed of three main formations: a women’s choir based on open folk singing, soloists, an orchestra of folk instruments and a mixed dance ensemble.

Repertoire

Our repertoire includes dozens of dance performances, solo, choral and orchestral works. It features dances and songs from all ethnographic regions, which reveal the vast folklore wealth of Bulgaria. Particular attention is paid to the recreation of folklore and folk customs of the Strandzha region. Emblematic is the dance “Nestinarka” – choreography by Metodi Kutev, music by Hristo Todorov and Prof. Dr. Stefan Chapkanov.

Years of history

Outside concerts

Awards and distinctions

Awards and achievements

Professional folklore ensemble “Strandja” has performed more than 7000 concerts in Bulgaria and abroad. He has toured successfully in the USA, Belgium, India, Hungary, France, Macedonia, Germany, Slovakia, Poland, Czech Republic, Greece, Turkey, Austria, Israel, Palestine and many other countries. He is a laureate of national and international competitions and festivals.

“Crystal Lyre” for musical folklore

Union of Bulgarian Music and Dance Artists 2015

Second Prize “Golden Carnation”

International folklore competition in the town of. Yalova (Turkey) 2012

Nestinarka Award

International Folklore Festival – Burgas 2008

“Golden Lyre” for musical folklore

Union of Bulgarian Music and Dance Artists 2005

Golden Carnation Grand Prix

International folklore competition in the town of. Yalova (Turkey) 2002

“Golden Caragiose” Grand Prix

International folklore competition in the town of. Bursa (Turkey) 1995

Golden Axe Grand Prize

International folklore competition in the town of. Zakopane (Poland) 1977

Management and composition

Professional Folklore Ensemble “Strandja” continues its activity under the leadership of Ivaylo Stoyanov – Balletmaster, Atanaska Boneva – Choirmaster, Christian Hristov – Concertmaster and Mario Egov – Chief Artistic Director.