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ABOUT

WHERE COMPOSER MEETS CONDUCTOR

The Sofia Symphonic Summit is where the creative synergy between emerging composers and conductors thrives, offering a rare opportunity to bring symphonic works to life with the prestigious Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra.

WHY SOFIA?

Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, is known for its rich cultural traditions, beautiful architecture, and advantageous art scene.  The people of Sofia love and appreciate new music and eagerly await the presentation of new compositions representing contemporary influences and stylistic differences.

PEOPLE AND PLACES

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Nayden Torodov

Director of the Sofia Philharmonic

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Simeon Pironkoff

Director of Pedagogy

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Joanna Ruseva

Guest Performer

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Peter Kerkelov

Guest Composer

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Alexandra
Karastoyanova-Hermentin

Guest Composer

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Kira Omelchenko

Conductor Faculty

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Tiffany M. Skidmore

Guest Composer

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Paul Richards

Guest Composer

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Scott Terrell

Conducting Faculty

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Bojidar Spassov

Guest Composer

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Sofia Philharmonic

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Michael Patterson

Guest Composer

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Mary Matthews

Guest Performer

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Svetlin Hristov

Managing Director

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Rila Monastery

Outstanding World Heritage location

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Sofia Philharmonic

The orchestra for our concerts

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National Palace of Culture

One of our cultural excursions

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National Theatre

A wonderful place to see a show

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Vrana Palace

A beautiful destination for an afternoon

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Housing

Places to stay while in Sofia

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Tyler Austin

Director of Conducting Program

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Evan Harger

Coordinator of Conducting Program

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Diogo Carvalho

Artistic Director

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TIMELINE
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DETAILS

  • Scholarships available up to €1500.

  • Program fee is €4295 for composers, €2895 for conductors.

  • Dates for the program:

    • June 30th - July 14th, 2025

  • Application opens October 15th, 2024.

  • Application period closes January 15th, 2025.

  • Priority is given to those who apply early.

  • Application review begins immediately and will continue until the application deadline, or till the program is full.

  • Applicants may receive a notification of being 'waitlisted'.  If waitlisted, applicants will receive notification no later than February 1st. 

  • You may apply as both a conductor/composer.

  • Click here to begin you application.

  • Questions should be mailed to:

2024

SSS 2024 saw a remarkable strengthening of the bonds between our soloists, conductors, composers, and the vibrant Sofia community. Our concerts not only showcased talent from over 13 countries but also drew a growing local audience, with more residents attending and engaging with the music than ever before. The support from the city has been instrumental in creating a rich, immersive experience for both participants and concertgoers.

"Hey Diogo,

I filled out the feedback form but also wanted to send a little thank you note for a great experience in Sofia! Everyone was so welcoming and the orchestra was fantastic. You’ve done an incredible job making the program what it is, and I couldn’t be happier to have participated. Hope everything runs smoothly in Sao Paulo!

Best,
Blake Opper"

2023

SSS 2023 brought participants and faculty from 11+ countries for 10 days of music and networking.

"The Sofia Symphonic Summit was filled with great performances, insightful instruction and friendships that will last a lifetime. It was one of the most rewarding and significant events of my career. I enthusiastically recommend it to all composers and conductors."

Harry Bulow, Purdue University

2022

SSS 2022 brought participants and faculty from 15+ countries for 10 days of music and networking.