Prof. Atanas Atanassov (b. 1952) is a Bulgarian composer, pianist, harpsichord and organ performer and pedagogue. Born in Pazardzhik, he graduates from the Prof. Pancho Vladigerov National Music Academy in Piano with prof. B. Starshenov (1977) and Composition with prof. P. Hadzhiev (1985). Attends a Master class in piano with prof. B. Starshenov (1977-79). Participates in international courses in Piano Interpretation held in: Weimar (Germany – 1975) by Regina Smendzyanka; Paris (France – 1976, 1977 and 1983) by Yvonne Lefebure; Prague (Czech Republic – 1978) by Milan Schlechta (organ), Suzanna Ruzhichkova (harpsichord) and Frantischeck Rauch (piano). He has won prizes from a number of national and international competitions. Has an intense concert activity as a soloist, chamber performer and contributor to a number of vocal and orchestral formations – as a pianist, harpsichord and organ player. Has made recordings for studio Balkanton, Gega New, BNR, BNT, Radio Genf and more. First-time performer of many pieces by Bulgarian composers. Has many concert performances as soloist to symphonic orchestras. The most prestigious is his participation as composer and pianist in the International Festival for Contemporary Music in Saint Petersburg, Russia (1991), where he performs his First Concert for Piano and Orchestra with the Philharmonics of Saint Petersburg.

Since 1978 teaches in National Music Academy in Sofia. Professor (since 2000) in Piano Accompaniment and Composition. Also leads classes in Methodics of the Piano Accompaniment and Figured Bass. The pedagogic activities also include the courses he led in Piano Interpretation in Greece and Turkey. He has been a vice-dean (1993-1999) and dean (2004-2012) of the Instrumental Faculty of NMA and head of the Specialised Scientific Council of Musicology and Musical art (2007-2010). Member of the Board of the Union of the Bulgarian Composers (2005-2011). Currently he is head of the Department of Chamber Music and Accompaniment in IF, National Music Academy.