When I was growing up in Bulgaria, the two most important things were music and sports. If you succeeded in one or the other, you were set for life. My grandmother stressed the importance of music and encouraged me, my brother and two of my cousins to play the violin, which she said was the most beautiful instrument of all. When I was four, my parents – who were both professional musicians – enrolled my brother and me at a specialist music school in Sofia, from which I graduated when I was 18.
Music was by far the main focus at this school, although all subjects were taught. We had instrumental lessons twice a week, orchestral, chamber, and other music classes. When you showed talent it was not a matter of if you would go to international competitions, but when! It was an extremely competitive environment, but I’m thankful for it. I wouldn’t be where I am today without it. It trains you to control your nerves, and do what you need to do. With that discipline comes a lot of self-confidence.