Over 30 singers from over 10 countries have applied to participate in the third edition of the National Competition with international participation for young opera singers “Stoyan Popov”. The event, which is expected with great interest from the music community, is organized by the State Opera - Burgas, with the support of Burgas Municipality.

Preparation for the competition is already underway, and candidates will compete from October 26 to 30. They will perform in two rounds, judged by a jury that will have to make complex decisions. The stage of the State Opera – Burgas will welcome the talents, who will be accompanied by a piano.

The final of the competition will be marked by a gala concert of the laureates, which will be held on October 30. At that moment, the audience will have the opportunity to enjoy the performances of the winners, and they will be accompanied by the Orchestra of the State Opera - Burgas.

The competition is dedicated to the life and work of the world-renowned opera singer Stoyan Popov. Born on October 21, 1933, in the village of Momina Tsrkva, Burgas region, the baritone leaves a lasting mark on the history of world opera. Stoyan Popov comes from a priestly family and grew up in the faith in Christian values, patriotism and respect for Bulgarian traditions. It was from Burgas that his remarkable artistic journey began, bringing him recognition beyond the borders of his homeland.

Maestro Stoyan Popov graduated from the Bulgarian State Conservatory in the class of Prof. Hristo Brambarov. Even as a student, he was awarded a gold medal at the World Youth Festival in Helsinki. The French music critics call him "Vocal Cathedral" and "the Bulgarian Tito Gobbi". His tours on world opera stages receive enthusiastic reviews, such as "exceptional Macbeth" and "unsurpassed interpreter of Scarpia".

The repertoire of Maestro Stoyan Popov includes over 50 central baritone parts, performed with great success in the opera theaters of 3 continents. In addition to the stage, the Maestro devoted over 20 years to the cause of helping young opera singers. He teaches them vocal technique and interpretation, and through his contacts at home and abroad, he also helps them with their professional realization.

Stoyan Popov's unrealized dream remains the creation of a studio for young opera singers, where they can develop and improve their talents. The idea for a competition in his name comes from this dream of his - with thought and care for the young generation, which will continue the worthy presence of Bulgarian opera artists on the world stages!