Bozhidar Abrashev

Bojidar Abraschev (1936–2006) graduated from the National Academy of Music (former Bulgarian State Conservatory) in 1960 majoring in Composition under Professor Pancho Vladigerov. He was Music Director of the Philip Koutev National Folklore Ensemble (former State Ensemble for Traditional Song and Dance “Philip Koutev”). He joined the staff of the National Academy of Music in 1964 and became lecturer in Symphony Orchestration and Music Instruments. In 1990, he was promoted Full Professor, next year he received a Doctor of Art Study degree. From 1999 to 2001, he was elected Deputy Rector (1999-2001). He has been teaching Symphony Orchestration, Music Instruments Composition, Music Analysis and Essential Theory of Music also at the Academy of Music and Dance Art in Plovdiv, Sofia University, Shumen University and the Neofit Rilski South-Western University in Blagoevgrad. He was also member of the Music Expert Council at the Ministry of Culture (since 1990). He was appointed Minister of Culture in 2001. Bojidar Abraschev composed in a variety of genres focusing on cantatas, oratorios, orchestral and chamber ensemble music. He is the author of five symphonies and other works for symphony orchestra; two oratorios; choral, vocal and chamber music. He arranged over 300 traditional songs and instrumental melodies. He also orchestrated over 20 works by other authors. He won State orders and received various national awards. He published monographic studies, other research works and articles.