Originally from Bulgaria, Preslav Petkov is not your typical clarinetist. He’s a musician who’s been based in Kuwait for the past 15 years, and he is currently working as a woodwind instrumental tutor at the Kuwait English School. Preslav has done so much for the music community in Kuwait, that it would be safe to assume that one would feel overwhelmed by all the hard work that goes into fostering the growth of the local music community. But, his passion towards his craft makes all the effort worthwhile, and also makes for an awesome story for all the music lovers out there!
42 years old and thriving, Preslav graduated from The National Music Academy that is based in the capital of Bulgaria, Sofia. He went on a journey to become an inspiring instrumental teacher. Not only that, but he also plays the piano and the saxophone, even though his true love lies with the clarinet. “My dad brought me to a musical school in Rouse, that is my hometown [in Bulgaria], and when I heard the sound of various instruments, as soon as I heard the clarinet, I loved it. I fell in love with it immediately, I loved the natural sound it makes.”
Music was not just a vital passion to Preslav, it’s also a dedication. This can be seen through his teaching methods, where his greatest achievement lies in encouraging younger generations to play instruments, learn, and explore the world of musical art through them. He believes that the best way to grab the attention of music seekers is when they have the chance to both hear and see a demonstration of an actual instrument. “I wanted to deliver my passion and continue giving my love to music through my students, and I decided to just deliver my knowledge [and] not to just keep it to myself, and pass it on to the next generation, I gave my passion to them,” he says.
Preslav’s experiences alone speak miles of his passion. He used to work as an orchestral player, he was part of two major professional orchestras, including the prestigious Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra, and several touring productions and collaborations. During his time in Kuwait, Preslav explains his joy in meeting a nationally-diverse group of people, as he says, “It is such a unique international place, with so many different customs and cultures met here. I have made a lot of new friends, not only from the music scene.”
The power of music encourages people to become immersed in different experiences, while also bridging together various cultures. In a time where classical music events were not as popular as they are today, one specific family Preslav spoke highly of are the Bushmans, renowned for their incredible musical efforts in Kuwait’. “I’m so grateful we found each other in Kuwait. Since then numerous events [such] as opera, symphonic, oratorio, jazz, musical, various genres of productions were staged. I would call them both our musical saviors” he says. On top of these amazing musical expressions, Preslav and the Bushmans established a valuable relationship between themselves and the Bulgarian Opera house, Stara Zagora.
After collaborating with various local and international musicians, especially through Dar Al- Athar’s Bulgarian Music Nights, fruitful relationships were formed. Plus, as someone who performs regularly on stage, along with his wife, Anna Karadimitrova who is an operatic singer, the projects just keep coming in! An exciting upcoming event Preslav shared with us is The Battle of the Soprano, which is a crossover project in mixing opera and jazz for a battle that’ll be set for next year. “Music is a unique language, through playing music people can speak the same language,” says Preslav. Music is the food of love, so we will keep the play on!
TRUTH OR DARE QUESTIONNAIRE
How would your mother describe you in one word?
Responsible.
How would you describe your mother in one word?
Dedicated and strong.
What is the most ridiculous question you’ve ever been asked?
Is the clarinet easy to play?
What is the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done?
I have not done such.
What is your theme song?
“Shape of My Heart” by Sting.
What word in the English or Arabic language do you wish you had invented?
I can’t think of one.
Where would you like to live?
I don’t know yet.
What is your dream retirement location?
Southern France.
What is the first famous quote that comes to your mind?
“Be yourself, no matter what they say.”
Which animal best describes your perfect partner, be it in business, or in life?
A cat.
Do you miss anything from your childhood and if so, what is it?
Real music and true friendship without social media.
If you could change your name, to what would you change it?
I wouldn’t.
How would you describe your handshake, in one word?
Formal.
What is the toughest part of your character?
Frankness and sometimes being too naive.
Who is your favorite historical figure?
John Lennon.
What in the world do you least desire?
To be famous.
What do you think is lacking in the world, which [if there were more of it] would make the world a better place?
Protecting the environment, “Peace and Peoples” good manners.
Why do you think most people who do, like you?
Because I’m cool. joking! Let them say whether they do or don’t…
Finish this sentence: “Happiness is…”
To make music and love someone.
For more information, follow @presley005 on Instagram. Images courtesy of Preslav Petkov.
