Kaloyan Kumanov – accordion Stoyan Yankoulov – drums
Miroslav Ivanov – guitars
Radoslav Slavchev “Riverman” – bass
Julian Janev – keyboards
The inspiring musical journey of Kaloyan Kumanov began in Dobrich, Bulgaria where he mastered the accordion from an early age. After rigorous training at the Plovdiv Academy of Music and at the University of Barcelona, Kumanov built an illustrious international career.
After achieving international recognition, Kaloyan Kumanov returned to Bulgaria, founding his innovative Accordion Impressions project, which premiered at Bulgarian National Radio’s Studio 1 in October 2023. This visionary ensemble brings together Bulgaria’s top musicians: percussionist Stoyan Yankoulov, guitarist Miroslav Ivanov, bassist Radoslav Slavchev “Riverman”, pianist Julian Janev, and vocalist Hristina Neykova. The project redefines the accordion’’s role through a fusion of jazz, world music and contemporary styles, showcasing Kumanov’s mastery while highlighting Bulgaria’s vibrant musical talent. This collaboration represents both a homecoming and an artistic breakthrough for the acclaimed accordionist.
For Bansko Jazz Festival, Kumanov has crafted a program that shatters conventional perceptions of the accordion. Blending jazz, tango, ethno, progressive rock, and blues, he transforms the instrument from a folk accompaniment into a centerpiece of modern musical innovation.
Having earned critical acclaim in Bulgaria and abroad, Kumanov’s Bansko Jazz Festival debut promises to be a landmark event – a testament to the accordion’s untapped potential as a vehicle for both emotional depth and avant-garde experimentation. Audiences can anticipate a performance that bridges tradition and modernity, leaving an indelible mark on the festival’s legacy.