Today we’d like to introduce you to Iva Raykova.
Iva, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I first arrived in the United States to pursue my studies, not anticipating the cultural shock and the challenge of adapting to life far from my family and friends. My musical journey, however, began long before that. I started playing piano at age 4, and a few years later began studying viola at the National Music School in Sofia, Bulgaria, where I fell in love with the instrument’s deep, rich sound. Those early experiences laid the foundation for a lifelong passion for music and performance.
Over the years, I completed a Master’s degree at Southern Methodist University, as well as a Bachelor’s degree and an Artist Diploma at Texas Christian University, studying under extraordinary educators who shaped both my musicianship and the person I am today. One of the most inspirational figures in my life has been violist Misha Galaganov, with whom I studied at Texas Christian University. His guidance helped me discover the kind of musician I aspired to become—one who performs with purpose, seeks excellence in artistry and study, and interprets music with imagination while connecting genuinely with audiences.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My journey as a musician has not always been easy. Moving to the United States to pursue my studies brought a significant cultural shock and the challenge of adapting to life far from my family and friends, which at times felt isolating. Learning to navigate a new education system, balancing rigorous performance and academic demands, and establishing myself professionally in a competitive field were all significant hurdles. Launching programs for young musicians in underserved communities also presented challenges, from securing instruments and funding to building trust and engagement with families. Yet, these obstacles taught me resilience, patience, and the value of a strong support system of mentors, colleagues, and friends, and they strengthened my determination to pursue excellence in both performance and teaching.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
During my studies, I became involved with B Sharp Youth Music, a program dedicated to social change through music. It was there that I discovered my passion for teaching children and sharing my love of music. This experience led me to launch a strings program for elementary students at Valor Education in Austin, and now I am developing a new program at West Dallas STEM School, bringing access to high-quality music education to students in underserved communities.
As a performer, I regularly appear with orchestras such as the Plano Symphony Orchestra, Irving Symphony Orchestra, Las Colinas Symphony Orchestra, and East Texas Symphony Orchestra. I have also appeared in prestigious festivals including Music in the Mountains, Brevard Music Center, Castleton Festival, AIMS Graz, and Ohio Light Opera. A particularly meaningful highlight was performing Mozart’s Sinfonia Concertante as a soloist alongside violinist Tim Angel with the Mansfield Philharmonic Orchestra. Other notable performances include sharing the stage with Michael Bublé on his Higher Tour and performing with the Eagles on their 2020 tour. Upcoming engagements include joining Sarah Brightman and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra on their tours later this year.
For the past five years, I have also been deeply involved with the Heifetz International Music Institute, where I currently serve on the leadership team as Program Coordinator of the Junior Division. In this role, I help identify talented young musicians from around the world and create an environment where they can connect and grow during the Institute’s six-week summer session in Staunton, Virginia.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Outside of music, I enjoy reading books and exploring programs and podcasts that inspire creativity and curiosity. Some of my favorite books include The Magic Mountain by Thomas Mann and Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov, which offer rich storytelling and thought-provoking themes. I also enjoy listening to radio programs such as WRR 101 Classical and NPR’s From the Top, which showcases young, promising performers, as well as the podcast Lore, which delves into folklore tales and legends.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @ivaraykovaviola
