Tchaikovsky’s “Romeo and Juliet” Opens the New Season of Fortissimo Academy

How does a composer transform the most intimate human emotions into music that continues to move audiences centuries later? With an exploration of the life and music of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, the Sofia Philharmonic opens the new season of its educational series, Fortissimo Academy.

On September 20 at 5:00 p.m. at Bulgaria Hall, the audience will enter Tchaikovsky’s world through one of his most powerful works – the Romeo and Juliet Fantasy-Overture.

Actress Ana Papadopulu takes on the role of narrator. The acclaimed Bulgarian actress will introduce key moments from the composer’s life, helping listeners of all ages discover how his experiences, sensitivity and imagination found their voice in music. Tchaikovsky’s story will unfold alongside the story of his works – in an accessible and engaging way, without losing the depth of great art.

A special place in the program is reserved for Romeo and Juliet. Inspired by Shakespeare’s tragedy, Tchaikovsky does not retell the play scene by scene. Instead, he creates a musical drama in which the conflict between hatred and love can be heard from the very first bars. The audience will discover how an orchestra creates characters and images without words, how different musical themes represent the protagonists and their conflict, and how one of the most recognizable love themes in classical music comes to life.

In the second half of the concert, the Sofia Philharmonic will perform the complete Romeo and Juliet Fantasy-Overture, giving the audience the opportunity to experience the work again, this time with a deeper understanding of its themes, characters and dramatic structure.

The concert also marks young conductor Marta Gaytandjieva’s first appearance with Bulgaria’s national orchestra. Her invitation is part of the Sofia Philharmonic’s ongoing commitment to providing young Bulgarian conductors with professional opportunities and a platform to develop their careers.

Fortissimo Academy transforms the concert hall into a place of discovery. Through encounters with composers and their works, as well as with actors and musicians, the series invites the audience to discover how to listen to classical music, recognize the stories and ideas within it, and find their own way into its world.

Fortissimo Academy concerts are designed both for those experiencing classical music for the first time and for devoted listeners looking to broaden their musical horizons.

Tickets starting at €20 are available at the Bulgaria Hall box office and through Eventim