VALYA BALKANSKA: The Cosmic Voice of Bulgaria’s Rhodope Mountains

Friday, May 20
8:00pm (doors open at 7:30)

$25 general in advance at Brown Paper Tickets -http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2541803
$30 general at the door
$20 seniors 70+ & students
$20 Seattle Balkan Dancer members (only available in advance at SBD Friday night parties)
FREE children under 13

Russian Hall and Community Center
704 19th Avenue E
Seattle, WA 98112

Legendary Bulgarian singer Valya Balkanska and her incomparable bagpiperPetar Yanev return to Seattle after nearly 15 years for a rare evening of soulful music from the majestic Rhodope Mountains. Born in a hamlet near the village of Arda, Balkanska is one of the last artists in a generation who grew up singing in a traditional setting. Her recording of the beloved folk ballad “Izlel je Delyo Haidutin,” recorded by Pacific Northwest treasure Martin Koenig, was selected by scientist Carl Sagan for inclusion on the Voyager spacecraft launched in 1977. In 2002, the Bulgarian government bestowed upon her the country’s highest honor, the Stara Planina Orden.

The second half of the evening will offer dancing to live music by Michael Lawson (accordion) and David Bilides (tapan).

Snacks, beer, wine and soft drinks will be available for purchase. Potluck items are welcome.

This concert is co-sponsored by Seattle Balkan Dancers, Bulgarian Cultural and Heritage Center of Seattle, and New Land Music.