site.btaUS Pianist Pauline Yang Brings Pillow Concerts to Sofia

American pianist Pauline Yang will perform on Sunday for the Sofia audience of the Pillow Concerts series, the organizers from Sofia Art Institute said.

The young musician, who made her Carnegie Hall debut at the age of 11, will share the stage with music students from Bulgarian schools and universities, with some performances featuring pianist Veneta Neinska.

Yang told journalists that, in addition to music, she completed degrees in international relations and political science. She is an honorary arts envoy of the United States and successfully bridges diplomacy and music. Bringing the two together is a dream come true that, she admitted, she never believed she could achieve. In her view, music can connect people from different backgrounds, and this is where she sees its overlap with diplomacy. She said she has travelled all over the world and loves getting to know diverse people and cultures. Her first impression of Bulgaria is the warmth of its people, and from the local cuisine she particularly enjoys yoghurt.

Pianist Veneta Neinska, artistic director of the Sofia Art Institute, noted that the first Pillow Concerts were held 15 years ago. The idea was born after she became a mother and realized that in Bulgaria there was nowhere to attend a concert with a small child. Thus the initiative began and, in practice, these are the first chamber concerts in the country designed for children and parents, with the audience sitting on pillows instead of chairs. In addition to the music, children can listen to stories about composers and musical instruments, dance, and draw. According to the organizers, these events are suitable for both babies and older children.

Neinska commented that the aim of the Sofia Art Institute is to transform arts activities for children and adults in Bulgaria by expanding the community of people with knowledge, refined taste, and a lasting interest in culture.

One of the initiatives is the Choral Academy, where children and adults can enjoy singing, develop their artistic talents, and make new friends. Participants begin with basic vocal exercises and progress to their first recordings and live concerts, guided by professional choral conductors. In 2026, we plan to launch the Family Choral Academy, where all family members who wish to sing together will be able to join the sessions.

For curious children and young people aged 8 to 18, there is the Culture Club, where each week they can discover fascinating facts about a different historical figure – a philosopher, musician or scientist. “We try to teach them that they not only have the right, but even the duty, to form their own opinions,” Neinska said, adding that broad general knowledge and strong critical thinking skills help shape future leaders.