The gala concert at Sofia Opera showed off the best students from Raina Kabaivanska's 26th International Master Class.

Two of Bulgaria's most promising young opera singers were among the performers, and Kabaivanska introduced each of them in turn. Gabriela Yordanova had sung Frasquita in Burgas the night before the concert. Alexandrina Mihaylova had made her debut in "A Masked Ball" at Varna Opera shortly before.

The students spent three weeks working with Kabaivanska to polish their talent and improve their vocal technique. At the concert they showed how far they had come. Maestro Nayden Todorov conducted.

Kabaivanska said theatre is a miracle and that a great miracle had happened that evening. She thanked the audience from her heart and told the hall: "Tonight I heard your hearts beat with our hearts."

New Bulgarian University supports the master class. Kabaivanska said: "New Bulgarian University has been with us since 26." She wished it a happy birthday and thanked it for its love and support over the years.

"As long as I have strength, I will present to you my young children, my little children, who are growing up together with New Bulgarian University," Kabaivanska said.