The Symphony Space performing arts center in Upper West Side Manhattan was the location of a concert by one of the best musicians from Eastern Europe. About 1000 people experienced one of the most unique forms of music on October 23, 2011. The experience was a connection with tradition for some, and a breath of fresh air for others. However, judging by the reaction, it is clear that all who attended had an unforgettable experience.
Imagine a traditional musician who has developed his own unique musical style that can be admired by all cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Imagine a musician who has spread an unheard culture all around the globe. Imagine a musician who has won many awards and has worked with many other musicians and filmmakers. I imagine Theodosii Spassov, one of the most influential and honored musicians of Bulgarian culture. He is considered a national hero in Bulgaria, and the world is starting to see why.
Theodosii Spassov was born on March 4th, 1961. He began studying how to use the kaval, a Bulgarian “shepherd” flute, at the Kotel Music School and The Academy of Music and Dance in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. The kaval, one of the oldest instruments in Europe, is an eight-hole wooden flute. What makes this musical genius truly stand out is his own unique style of playing the kaval, which is a mixture of the traditional folklore, jazz, classical, and even pop genres. After finishing school, he recorded 10 solo albums and contributed to 11 more by fellow artists. In April 1995, “Newsweek” noted that Spassov “is not merely surviving the post-communist cultural wasteland. He has actually invented a new musical genre.” For over 20 years, he has toured around the world and spread his distinct style to many different cultures. He has been to places in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Australia, Canada, and the United States. Many appreciate his music, and his numerous awards affirm this, such as a Grammy for “Le Mystere Des Voix Bulgares”. His work can be seen in some Italian films, such as “An Italian Story” and “The Breakout of the Innocent”. He has worked with many talented musicians, such as Dave Liebman and Andy Sheppard. At home in Bulgaria, where he recently received the “Music Artist of the Year”, Spassov is known as a national and musical hero. Currently, he is the artistic director of the world-renown “Philip Koutev Ensemble Of Music, Drama And Dance” and is a member of the Irish music and dance company “Riverdance”. Theodosii Spassov has invented a new inspirational musical genre, one that can be appreciated and honored all around the world.
Theodosii Spassov has brought a taste of Bulgarian culture to people all over the world. His musical style blends jazz with many styles, and it attracts people of all cultures. He has taken a traditional Bulgarian instrument, the kaval, and has used it to create a very unique style that is enjoyable to all. The audience at the Symphony Space performing arts center consisted of many cultural and ethnic groups. In fact, more than half of the audience was not Bulgarian. Spassov has expanded Bulgarian culture and created something that can be enjoyed by people outside of Eastern Europe. His music is very easy to listen to and can appeal to anyone’s taste in music. His ability to redefine a culture into something that can be praised by anyone is truly remarkable.
Theodosii Spassov is a musician that will be remembered for all time. In fact, he is more than a musician—he is a revolutionary in Bulgarian culture. He has spread an unknown culture to every continent, and has developed a style that has never been heard before and is appealing to all listeners. Personally, I find his music to be very soothing and enjoyable. His songs add a jazzy flair to cultural music, while still staying true to Bulgarian tradition. I felt a deep connection with my background and also enjoyed listening to this modern innovator. I would listen to his music whenever I have an opportunity. There is nothing more relaxing than listening to one of his songs on a Sunday morning!
Bibliography
- Jordanov, Ilian. “Biography.” Theodosii Spassov – Official Web Site. Web. 25 Oct. 2011. <http://theodosiispassov.com/en/about-me/biography>.
