Razgrad Philharmonic Orchestra

The Razgrad Philharmonic traces its symphonic tradition to Iliya Barnev's first orchestral concert in 1922. The ensemble became a state orchestra on 1 July 1947, with Stefan Vachev appointed conductor following a competition. Its first ceremonial concert under the new status was broadcast by Radio Varna that October. State status ended in 1964, and professional activity resumed at the Razvitie community centre in 1967. The orchestra later became an independent municipal body and adopted the name of composer and pianist Dimitar Nenov in 2001. Bulgarian music has remained part of its work, alongside the city's Nenov-related festivals and young pianists' competition. Razgrad stands in the Ludogorie of north-eastern Bulgaria, beside the ruins of Roman Abritus. Its philharmonic follows the pattern of the country's regional orchestras: a symphonic season for the town, work with visiting soloists, and playing for civic and school occasions.