After a two-year large-scale study of the music sector in Bulgaria, the results showed that the majority of actively working musicians have a professional music education, which, however, does not fully meet the modern requirements and trends in the industry. Despite solid instrumental preparation, there are serious needs to update the curricula, as well as to integrate business modules and training in areas such as the tax and social security system and copyright, which would support the professional sustainability of musicians.

“The Bulgarian Music Association is determined to be an active agent for change and innovation in music education. Our membership in EAS is just the beginning of our effort to modernize methodologies and create conditions for successful professional realization of Bulgarian musicians,” comment the members of the BMA Board of Directors.

In 2025, the BMA will participate in the EAS Annual Conference, which will be held under the motto “Unlocking the Voices – Shaping the Future of Music Education”. This forum will provide an exceptional opportunity for the exchange of knowledge and ideas to be applied in the development of Bulgarian music education.

“Not only will we continue to work actively to strengthen the network of music professionals, but we will also continue to analyze data and seek the best solutions for building future cadres. Through partnerships and cooperation, we will develop proposals for improving the existing system of professional schools and classes, as well as for better use of schools at cultural institutes and community centers,” the association commented.

Some of the main questions that the BMA is considering include: How to develop entrepreneurial thinking in young musicians and provide them with skills for a successful career without suppressing their creativity? What changes in curricula would respond to the dynamics of modernity? How to build a strong connection between educational institutions and the music industry to provide future generations of musicians not only with theoretical knowledge, but also with a practical understanding of the real market?

In these important and dynamic moments for the development of the Bulgarian music scene, the Bulgarian Music Association remains committed to setting new standards for music education that will allow musicians to succeed in the modern and globalized world of music industries.