Join acclaimed vocalist Elena Hristova, lead singer of the renowned Macedonian world music group Baklava, for an inspiring vocal workshop exploring the intersection of tradition and contemporary artistic expression.
Drawing on the rich vocal heritage of the Balkans, Turkey, and her extensive experience as a performer, Elena will guide participants through traditional singing techniques, ornamentation, vocal expression, and storytelling. The workshop will focus on how traditional songs and vocal practices can be reinterpreted and transformed in contemporary contexts while preserving their emotional depth and cultural roots.
Participants will explore:
- Traditional Balkan vocal techniques and ornamentation
- Breath, resonance, and vocal expression
- The relationship between voice, identity, and cultural heritage
- Creative approaches to arranging and interpreting traditional songs
- Experimentation with contemporary vocal aesthetics and performance practices
The workshop is open to singers, musicians, performers, and anyone interested in discovering the expressive possibilities of the human voice. No advanced musical training is required—only curiosity and a willingness to explore.
About Elena Hristova
Elena Hristova is a singer, songwriter, and cultural ambassador best known as the lead vocalist of Baklava, one of North Macedonia’s most respected world music ensembles. Her artistic work bridges traditional Balkan music and contemporary sounds, bringing ancient melodies into dialogue with modern musical languages. She has also collaborated and performed with the influential Turkish psychedelic folk-rock band Baba Zula, deepening her engagement with the musical traditions of the wider region. Fluent in Turkish as well as her native Macedonian, Elena moves effortlessly between cultures, fostering artistic exchange and intercultural dialogue through music. Through concerts, collaborations, and educational activities, she actively promotes the living heritage of traditional singing to audiences across Europe and beyond.
Duration: Wed 15 – Sat 18 July 2026
Live performance on Sajeta stage: on Saturday (18 July 2026) at 17:30 (20–30 min)
Fee: 30 € (participants with festival ticket); 50 € (others)
**Number of participants is limited.
APPLY HERE