Mihail Iossifov – trumpet
Velislav Stoyanov – trombone
Dimitar Liolev – saxophone
CapriHorns is an original musical project created by three of the most prominent figures on Bulgaria’s brass scene – Mihail Iossifov, Velislav Stoyanov, and Dimitar Liolev. Beyond being among the country’s most dynamic musical innovators, the trio shares the zodiac sign Capricorn, inspiring the project’s name – a fusion of “Capricorn” and “Horns”.
Mihail Iossifov stands as one of Bulgaria’s most influential musicians – a virtuoso performer, composer, and arranger, honored with prestigious awards such as the Crystal Lyre and Golden Feather. He is the founder of legendary ensembles like the Mihail Iossifov Sextet and B.A. Combo, as well as a longtime collaborator with the globally acclaimed Pink Martini. Velislav Stoyanov, co-founder of the Brass Association, is the visionary behind projects like BrazzViliDJ and Old School Trombone, seamlessly blending tradition with modern funk. Dimitar Liolev captivates audiences with his album Rhodopology, a masterful synthesis of jazz and Bulgarian folk motifs. The three frequently collaborate, performing together in the Brass Association and sharing stages with legends such as Mike Stern, Milcho Leviev, and Theodosii Spassov.
Their compositions reflect a profound understanding of tradition while embracing contemporary musical language, weaving through jazz, funk, Latin, and world music influences. CapriHorns embodies resilience, improvisational freedom, and the deep camaraderie that unites them both on and off stage.
The project is a natural extension of the long-standing work of the Brass Association – founded in 2008 by Iossifov and Stoyanov as a platform for popularizing brass music in Bulgaria. Today, the association unites generations of musicians shaping the modern face of the country’s music scene.