The first winner of the NEF ‘13 Centuries of Bulgaria’ National Prize in support of young talent in contemporary arts and science releases a new CD
Pianist Victoria Vassilenko, who became the first winner of the National Prize in support of young talent in contemporary art and science, launched by the NEF ‘13 Centuries of Bulgaria’, completed her specialisation at the Music Chapel in Waterloo, whose current patron is Queen Paola of Belgium. The Queen signed the diploma awarded to Vicky, who has frequently given concerts at Her Majesty’s villa.
Ms Vassilenko kindly replied to several questions:
What changed in your life during the months since you became the first holder of the National Prize in support of young talent in contemporary arts and science?
The times are certainly remarkably interesting for all of us. Thank God, I can preen myself for having a really busy schedule: successful concerts at home and abroad; successfully completing a doctorate at the Prof. Pancho Vladigerov National Academy of Music; launching a new project—the MusiCamerOn Society of Chamber Music in Bulgaria; successfully concluding a specialisation at the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel in Waterloo, and the release of my new CD.
I sincerely thank NEF ‘13 Centuries of Bulgaria’ for the support in all my endeavours during this time and, of course, for the help to complete my specialisation in Belgium.
What are your plans as a concert musician and pedagogue?
At the moment, it is difficult to make specific plans, but I certainly intend to develop further as an artiste in every respect—many wonderful engagements and projects lie ahead, which, I hope, will take place.
The COVID pandemic put musical performances ‘on pause’. What have you realised and changed in your way of thinking and attitude towards life?
I realised how much I miss the audience—artistes need to speak and share through their art and, without the audience, our voices fade into silence. On the other hand, this is a time when numerous new ideas arise; we have time to focus on many other things that are important for our inner ‘renewal’.
Are you planning on joint performances with your husband, pianist Sergei Redkin?
We held a couple of highly successful concerts for two pianos in Belgium; a trip to Montreal for a joint project is forthcoming in January.
NEF ‘13 Centuries of Bulgaria’ announced the second edition of the competition for young talents. What would you advise and wish future candidates?
I should like to wish great success and confidence to all the candidates!