Describe your background and industry experience, and explain how it will help you contribute to the SOCAN Board of Directors?
I was born and raised in Sofia, Bulgaria, where I received 12 years of education as a classical pianist and percussionist at the prestigious Lubomir Pipkov School of Music. Since moving to Canada in 1995, I’ve been able to expand my skill set to include music directing, songwriting, composing and producing in a variety of genres—from Jazz, World, Soul, Blues, Pop and Classical to Country.
As a Vancouver-based musician, I continue to perform and tour. I’m honoured to have worked alongside some tremendous Canadian and International artists, including Senator Tommy Banks, James Ehnes, Measha Brueggergosman, Warren Hill, Jackie Richardson, Wycliffe Gordon, kd lang, The Tenors, Order of Canada Big Band, Tom Jackson, Decidedly Jazz Danceworks, Youth Singers of Calgary and the Vancouver Symphony. I’m also the long-standing musical director for acclaimed trumpeter Jens Lindemann & acoustic soul recording artist Shannon Gaye.
As a songwriter, composer and producer, I’ve written for award-winning projects in film, television, dance and live theatre. On the recording front, in addition to my own original albums, I’ve been a part of three Juno-nominated CDs: Lauren Spencer-Smith Unplugged Vol.1 (2020), Order of Canada Soloists Sweet Canadiana (2017), and Jens Lindemann and Tommy Banks Legacy Live (2016). I’m fortunate to be a co-writer with Tate McRae for her RIAA gold-certified single One Day (2017).
Music has been my calling and sole occupation my entire life. I believe my multi-faceted experience in the music industry will offer a unique perspective and insight if I were elected to the SOCAN Board of Directors. The music industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace; I would love the opportunity to be a voice and advocate for fellow creators as the future unfolds.
In your opinion, what issues will be most important to SOCAN members over the next three years?
If I am elected, it will be my first year on the Board of Directors, and though I’ve been a SOCAN member for almost 30 years, I anticipate I’ll have a lot to learn. In working with songwriters and artists, it’s become clear to me that many SOCAN members aren’t fully aware of the services offered. I believe it’s crucial to promote better understanding and awareness of the performing and reproduction rights SOCAN manages, including live performances of original music.
In the ever-changing landscape of the music industry, ensuring artists receive all revenue worldwide for their original work will continue to be an important issue—whether that means revising the current coding system, or lobbying to amend legislation. Fellow composers have expressed concern over the inability to track their work more easily with more detailed insight.
Moving forward, the advent of AI technology presents an ongoing challenge for SOCAN to ensure that artists’ copyrights are respected and protected.
It is increasingly difficult to make a living as an artist/performer; the multiple income streams and resources SOCAN provides are essential tools for creators in navigating the industry, managing rights for original work, and expanding musical horizons.