When we talk about music and achievements on the stage, the name of one of Prof. Dariana Kumanova comes to mind. She is one of the most influential women in the artistic life of Italy and an indispensable part of the creative path of everyone who wants to shine brightly on the international stage. She herself has been a factor in the music industry for 20 years.
A few weeks before her master class "How to be successful on the international stage", in the last edition of which some of the most talented young people in our country have already participated, we have the honor to talk with the lady, winner of the Golden Lion award and the "Woman of the Year" award in Italy in the "Art" category - Prof. Dariana Kumanova.
Hello, Mrs. Kumanova! Days before your master class on "How to be successful on the international stage", we will talk about your path in the music industry, the difficulties, but also the great rewards. You are one of the most influential ladies of artistic life in Italy. What is the price of being a factor on the international scene for 20 years now?
Everything has a price. I lost my mother shortly before I took the San Remo stage and while I was organizing the funeral, I was also organizing the festival. Sometimes you have to neglect loved ones and family because of travel and commitments. We stay late in the studio when we have recordings and of course we don't have normal working hours and days off like other people.
How is talent discovered? What should a person possess to be worthy of the big stage?
Talent, luck, willingness to work and pure thoughts. They must never forget where they came from. When they start to behave as stars, the audience feels it and starts to abandon them.
What should they get rid of and what qualities should they emphasize?
There are many things to get rid of. From nightlife, for example, very often - especially if they have recordings or participation the next day, cigarettes are an unwanted danger for any singer. A strong spirit and self-discipline are extremely important components. This profession is incredibly difficult, very responsible, and anyone who has decided to take this path should be aware of what awaits them.
For many people, getting on the international stage equals a great deal of luck and immense talent. Hard work always seems to be ignored as a factor. Isn't it just the opposite?
Luck is of the utmost importance, and talent and hard work go hand in hand. I have seen many talented people who failed out of laziness, as well as less talented people who, with hard work and discipline, achieved great success.
Is there an established and working strategy to guarantee us a visible place under the spotlight?
Absolutely not. But if we have all the qualities that we listed above, plus the right team behind the artist – there is a great chance to succeed.
On May 14, part of the program in the master class will be presented by the virtuoso performer Stefan Ilchev - well known both in our country and internationally. When and how did your paths cross?
He called me after an interview I gave. We met in Sofia. Thus began a wonderful friendship between us, which grew into collaboration. I hope you will see and appreciate it soon.
Together with him, you will also do the audition of the participants, and one of them will be chosen personally by you to participate completely free of charge in the "Cup of Bulgaria in Performing Arts". What skills does the perfect candidate need?
To be interesting, to have a personality and talent... To be able to convey an emotion to me and make me think about nothing but the song I'm hearing and its brilliant performance.