General Questions
Music has the power to inspire, and my trumpet teacher, Krasimir Konyarov, has been a significant inspiration. I chose to interview him because of his passion for music and the way he teaches the trumpet. I wanted to learn more about his experiences and the lessons he shares with his students.
Özgür: Can you introduce yourself?
Krasimir: Hello, my name is Krasimir Konyarov. I was born in Sofia on February 11, 1964. In 1985, I was accepted to Sofia Music Academy as the top student. I graduated in 1989 and got my master’s degree in 1990. Since then, I have been playing the trumpet professionally.
Özgür: Why did you choose the trumpet?
Krasimir: At first, I didn’t want to play it, but later I loved it. It was like destiny.
Özgür: Who is your favorite trumpet player?
Krasimir: My favorite trumpet player is Maurice André.
Özgür: What is your favorite music style to play?
Krasimir: I like playing Baroque music.
Education and Experience
Özgür: Where did you learn to play the trumpet?
Krasimir: In 1971, I learned at Alen Mac Children’s Music School in Sofia.
Özgür: Have you worked with famous musicians?
Krasimir: Yes, between 1985 and 1990, I worked with Rusan Atev, Prof. Peter Kirparov, Prof. Angel Makedonski, and Prof. Atanas Dulgerov. In 1993, I studied with Konradin Groth at the Berlin Music Academy.
Music and Performance
Özgür: Do you play in a band or orchestra?
Krasimir: I played in an orchestra for many years. In January 2025, I retired after 32 years in the Bilkent Symphony Orchestra. However, I continue teaching at Bilkent Music and Performing Arts Faculty. Before Bilkent, I played in the Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra (1990), the Seoul Symphony Orchestra (Principal Trumpet, 1992), and the Berlin Chamber Orchestra (1993).
Özgür: How do you feel before a concert?
Krasimir: Every concert feels different. I always feel excited, just like my first performance.
Personal Questions
Özgür: What do you do in your free time?
Krasimir: I spend time with my family and pets. I have two daughters, two cats, one dog, and a 25-year-old parrot. I also enjoy free diving and fishing.
Özgür: Do you have any other artists in your family?
Krasimir: Yes, my wife is an artist at the Ankara State Opera and Ballet.
Closing Dialogue
Özgür: Thank you for your time, Mr. Konyarov. It was a pleasure to talk with you and learn about your experience.
Krasimir: You’re welcome! I’m happy to share my knowledge. Keep practicing, and never stop enjoying music!
Photo Credits
Featured Image: https://www.esereklidergi.com/incele.aspx?id=6439
Photo 1: Self-taken photo of Krasimir Konyarov.
Photos 2 and 3: Photos taken during the interview.
References
Bilkent University Faculty of Music and Performing Arts. (n.d.). Brass Instruments Department. Retrieved from https://music.bilkent.edu.tr/index.php/bakir-nefesli-calgilar/
Konyarov, K. (2025). Interview with My Trumpet Teacher. Interview conducted by Özgür.
Sofia Music Academy. History and notable alumni.
Maurice André. Biography and works.
Bilkent Symphony Orchestra. History of the orchestra.