Spring Newsletter 2026

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

Commissions & World Premieres

The 2026 festival will feature newly commissioned works and world premieres by leading contemporary composers David Ludwig (USA), Penka Kouneva (Bulgaria/USA), and Peter Kerkelov (Bulgaria). These new pieces will be premiered during the festival, continuing Off the Beaten Path’s commitment to expanding the chamber music repertoire and bringing new music to Bulgarian and visiting audiences.

Guest Artists

The festival will welcome an outstanding group of international guest artists, including acclaimed violinist Bella Hristova, renowned flutist Mark Sparks, distinguished clarinetist Karin Dornbusch and the vibrant soprano and composer Britt Hewitt. Together with the festival musicians they will perform a program of chamber music in some of Bulgaria’s most beautiful and unexpected settings.

Composer Residency

In 2026, the festival will launch a new composer residency program in Kovachevitsa, designed to support emerging composers. Participants will have the opportunity to work closely with our esteemed composers David Ludwig, Penka Kouneva, and Peter Kerkelov. The program will offer mentorship, collaboration with festival musicians, and a creative environment in the unique setting of Kovachevitsa.

SINGING HEARTS
A VOICE FOR NATURE

The mission of the Singing Hearts Vocal Camp is to raise young musicians in the values of kindness, compassion, and love for one's neighbor through the power of words and music.

Singing Hearts will take place from July 13 to 20, 2026, with daily rehearsals at the Cultural Center in Gotse Delchev from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Participants will be given songbooks with the lyrics of repertoire songs.

The exact program of activities will be prepared in collaboration with Georgi Zlatanov from Clean and Green Gotse Delchev. The camp will end with two concerts – one for the general public in the City Park in Gotse Delchev on July 18 and one at the Retirement Home on July 21.

MORE INFORMATION

SPONSORSHIPS AND PARTNERSHIPS

Our artistic work would not be possible without the generous support of individuals, local businesses, and foundations who believe in our mission. Their contributions allow us to create meaningful cultural experiences and sustain the future of our programs.

There are many ways to become part of our community. By joining us as a sponsor or partner, you help ensure that our work continues to grow and reach new audiences.

WAYS TO GET INVOLVED

Sponsorship Packages-- Recommended for corporations, businesses, local organizations, and individuals who wish to make a significant impact through their support.For more information, click HERE.

Donate a Chair in Kovachevitsa -- Recommended for individual supporters who would like to leave a lasting mark by dedicating a chair at the Svetlina Cultural Center in Kovachevitsa with a personalized wish or plaque. For more information, click HERE.

Support Our New Initiatives -- Recommended for individuals or small organizations who would like to contribute any amount to help launch and sustain our upcoming projects. For more information, click HERE.

Make a Tax-Deductible Contribution in the United States -- Friends of the Off the Beaten Path Festival, Inc. is our 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in New York. Contributions made through this organization are tax-deductible in the United States. To contribute by mail, please make your check payable to Friends of the Off the Beaten Path Festival and send it to: Friends of the Off the Beaten Path Festival, Inc. / 484 West 43rd Street, Apt. 5S / New York, NY 10036 / USA

IN THE WORKS

Off the Beaten Path Ensemble at the Bishop’s Basilica of Philippopolis

On May 16, musicians from the festival will perform at a special event in Plovdiv celebrating the fifth anniversary of the Museum at the Bishop’s Basilica of Philippopolis. The program will feature works by Ottorino Respighi, George Gershwin, and Dobrinka Tabakova, highlighting a vibrant blend of classical and contemporary repertoire.

New Green Partnership

In summer 2026, we will begin a new partnership with Clean and Green Gotse Delchev, supporting their efforts to prevent wildfires and promote environmental awareness in Southwestern Bulgaria with a portion of our ticket sales.

Our Debut Album of Chamber Music by Dobrinka Tabakova

Our first album featuring chamber music by Dobrinka Tabakova will be released in November 2026 on the NMC Recordings label. The album’s launch will be accompanied by a series of performances in London, New York, and Bulgaria.

Art Video of Peter Kerkelov’s “… then space began to toll…”

In fall and winter 2026, we will be working on the release of a new video showcasing Peter Kerkelov’s recent work inspired by Kovachevitsa.

THANK YOU SO MUCH TO EVERYONE
WHO SUPPORTS US!