Choir “Todor Mazarov” at Cultural Centre “Napred-1903” in the town of Pavel Banya was founded by Mrs. Deshka Porova, who also served as its first conductor. In 1964, she initially established a female formation which eventually evolved into a mixed choir for academic singing. The passion for choral singing grew so significantly that, during its peak years, the ensemble consisted of about 80 performers.
Choir “Todor Mazarov” at the Pavel Banya cultural center bears the name of Todor Mazarov, who was born in Pavel Banya and was described by the most significant musical luminaries of the first half of the 20th century as the “tenor wonder of the world” and the “iron Bulgarian voice.”
Today, the choir is conducted by Mr. Ivan Porov – the son of Mrs. Deshka Porova. He graduated from the Academy of Music in Plovdiv and studied conducting under his mother, as well as under Professors Ivan Spasov and Vasilka Spasov and Professor Vasil Arnaudov. As a prominent leader of vocal ensembles, Ivan Porov was invited to open the Cultural Olympic Games in Shoreham-by-Sea, UK, with a keynote speech.
The choir’s second conductor is Mrs. Polina Hristova. The accompanist is Mrs. Teodora Porova.
Currently, Choir “Todor Mazarov” is establishing itself as a chamber female formation. In addition to patriotic and Renaissance-era songs, the choir’s repertoire includes masterpieces of Bulgarian and world classical music.
The choir has performed concerts in Greece, Turkey, North Macedonia, and Austria. Within Bulgaria, it participates in choral festivals and events in Stara Zagora, Kazanlak, Harmanli, Dupnitsa, and, of course, Pavel Banya. The ensemble takes an active part in the “Topcheto Pukna” (The Cannon Fired) Festival of Patriotic and Renaissance Songs in the town of Klisura.
In addition to past awards, “Todor Mazarov” Choir has been honored for its recent activities with: the “Honorary Badge” of the President of the Republic of Bulgaria and the accompanying Decree; and the “Honorary Badge” of Pavel Banya and its accompanying Diploma. For their contributions, the choir members have received letters of commendation from numerous state, regional, musical, and municipal institutions