Bulgarian delegation, media chiefs arrive in Dublin for Easter

An official Bulgarian delegation has arrived in Dublin and was welcomed by representatives of the Bulgarian embassy in Ireland, Radio Bulgaria correspondent Darina Grigorova reported. It includes the directors general of Bulgarian National Radio (BNR), Bulgarian National Television (BNT) and the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA), as well as the Svetoglas vocal quartet.

A reception is planned for later on Saturday, during which the Svetoglas male quartet will perform, Radio Bulgaria correspondent Darina Grigorova reported from Dublin.

Speaking to Radio Bulgaria’s “Bridge of Faith” programme, ensemble member Daniel Spasov said the event would be an informal gathering rather than a conventional concert.

“I wouldn’t call it exactly a concert, but rather a meeting with representatives of the embassy, where Bulgarian folk songs will be performed – popular, well-loved songs that have stood the test of time. We can call them ‘timeless Bulgarian songs’, loved by several generations,” Spasov said.

The programme will include songs such as “Hubava si, moya goro”, “Omile mi, yagodo”, “Shto mi e milo i drago” and “Vo Struga dyukyan da imam”, which, he said, create a festive atmosphere and a sense of unity.

“This is a more informal meeting with the diplomats working here. Perhaps more interesting will be tomorrow, when after the liturgy we will meet the Bulgarian community and perform more works from the Bulgarian folk classics,” he added.

Commenting on his impressions of Ireland, Spasov said Irish audiences were particularly receptive to Bulgarian music.

“They are emotional and sensitive. They seem to have an innate sense for our music and rhythms, whether from older layers of folklore or more contemporary arrangements – they like it and embrace it,” he said.

Editor: Miglena Ivanova