Krista is a versatile Bulgarian musician with a rich background in viola, opera singing, and early music performance. She is currently a member of the Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra, where she continues to develop her career as a violist.
She graduated from the National School of Music “Lyubomir Pipkov” in Sofia with a major in viola and holds two bachelor’s degrees from the National Academy of Music “Prof. Pancho Vladigerov” – in viola and opera singing (2023). She has also studied harpsichord performance at the same institution.
Krista has performed with leading ensembles in Bulgaria, including the Bulgarian National Radio Orchestra, Vratsa Symphony Orchestra, Symphonietta Sofia, Vidin Symphony Orchestra, Gabrovo Symphony Orchestra, and others. Her international experience includes tours in Spain, France, Germany, Belgium, China, Italy, and more. In December 2023, she served as principal viola of the Sofia Philharmonic during its tour in China.
As a harpsichordist, Krista has given numerous concerts both as a soloist and as part of chamber and orchestral ensembles, often performing improvisations over basso continuo parts. Her work in early music spans performances as a harpsichordist, violist, vielist, percussionist, and singer.
She has also appeared as a vocal soloist with several orchestras across Bulgaria, performing a wide operatic and concert repertoire.
Awards:
Viola Competitions:
First prizes in multiple age categories at the “Međunarodno takmičenje gudača Niš” (Serbia)
First prizes at “Sv. Obretenov” (Provadia, Bulgaria)
First prize in Thessaloniki, Greece (2019)
and others
Singing Competitions:
First prize at “Sv. Obretenov” (Provadia, Bulgaria)
Special prize for vocal mastery from the National Academy of Music (Sofia)
Special prize at the “Ghena Dimitrova” Competition (Pleven, Bulgaria)
and others
The San Gabriel Valley Symphony is a professional orchestra created by working musicians and local leaders to reflect and serve the San Gabriel Valley—focusing on community engagement and social impact. Our mission is to show the next generation in the SGV that a career in the arts is not only possible, but capable of creating real change in their communities and beyond.