SOFIA, Bulgaria: Raina Kabaivanska, one of the greatest sopranos of her time, remains a significant figure in the world of opera, even as she approaches her 90th birthday in December.
Renowned for her powerful performances as Tosca and Madame Butterfly, Kabaivanska’s career has influenced generations of singers. Though she last performed on stage a decade ago, her legacy lives on through her annual masterclass in Sofia, where she mentors young talents.
Kabaivanska’s journey began in Burgas, Bulgaria, where she learned piano and was discovered by a teacher who recognized her exceptional voice. Her professional debut at the Sofia Opera in 1957 marked the start of a remarkable international career, highlighted by performances at Milan’s La Scala and collaborations with opera legends like Luciano Pavarotti.
Her masterclasses have welcomed over 200 students from around the globe since 2001, many of whom have pursued further studies in Italy with scholarships from a fund named in her honor. Kabaivanska emphasizes the importance of talent and the ability to interpret the world uniquely, believing that art has lost some of its public significance compared to previous generations.
Students like Baia Saganelidze and Andrei Miclea praise her teaching, highlighting not only vocal techniques but also insights into character portrayal and life in the opera world. Kabaivanska’s enduring passion for music fuels her ambition to guide the next generation of singers, ensuring that her influence on the art form continues well beyond her own performances.
