RECITAL: VESNA GINOVSKA ILKOVA AND KRISTINA SVETIEVA

Soprano Vesna Gjinovska Ilkova is a leading Macedonian drama soprano. She is said to possess a most sophisticated piano, impeccable vocal technique, musicality, charisma and strong stage presence. Ilkova’s debut at the Macedonian Opera and Ballet in 1996 in the the role of Michaela from “Carmen” in 1996 received rave reviews, with critics recognizing Ilkova’s remarkable legato technique. Her international debut happened in 2001 at Sofia National Opera, where she performed the technically challenging and complex role of Elizabeth in the opera “Don Carlo” by Verdi. This successful performance was followed by the production of “Tosca” where Ilkova appeared in the leading role. Vesna Ginovska has a successful international career, having performed in Denmark, Croatia, Slovenia, Bulgaria in “Aida”, “Otello”, “Turandot”, “Madame Butterfly”, “Simon Bocanegra”, “Atilla”, “La forza del destino”, “Un ballo de masquera”, “Lydia from Macedonia”… The Macedonian critique has praised her as a true master of pathos and drama, capable of delivering unique sensibility. Ilkova has made numerous concert performances and is recepient of highest state awards and recognitions. Kristina Svetieva has been recognized as one of Macedonia’s most talented young pianists. Winner of numerous domestic and international competitions, Kristina has performed extensively in recitals and at festivals in Turkey, Bulgaria, Holland, Cyprus, Croatia, Sweden, Italy, France, Czech Republic, USA…On many occasions she has performed as a soloist with the Macedonian Philharmonic, last concert of which she premiered the work Concert Etudes by composer Boris Svetiev. Appearing in concerts at only six years old, Svetiev has graduated cum laude from the Faculty of Music in Skopje (class T. Svetiev), received her Masters degree (cum laude, class. Z. Zaharieva) and a Doctorate (class of Z. Zaharieva) in 2014.

VESNA GJINOVSKA ILKOVA – soprano,
KRISTINA SVETIEVA – piano
Dejan Proshev – director