Milica Nikolic is from Serbia. Currently finishing Master in Spanish language and culture in Belgrade. From October I will be residing in Granada, Spain where I will be studying Master in Translation and Interpretation

Although born in Macedonia, Vlatko Stefanovski is a musician popular in all the countries that were once part of Yugoslavia. Since his music is based on the tradition common for all Yugoslavs, we can agree that his art is reluctant to borders and politics, it’s unique and appropriate for every generation.

Music career of Vlatko Stefanovski begins in his late teens when he formed the group Leb I Sol (Bread and Salt) which soon became one of the most important names in the music scene of former Yugoslavia. After few years of active playing, Vlatko Stefanovski leaves Leb I Sol and turns to his solo career releasing his first solo album Cowboys & Indians. From this moment, his career begins moving upward.

From 1998 he performs with his fellow guitarist Miroslav Tadic in Vlatko Stefanovski Trio. But, since he is well known from the Balkans to America for his unique guitar technique and tone and he is ready to play with all those who respect good music, Stefanovski also performs as soloist with many famous orchestras and artists: RTV Serbia Big band, Slovenian philharmonic orchestra, Tonkunstler orchestra from Vienna, Gibonni, Jan Akkerman, Theodosii Spassov, Stefan Milenkovic, Kudsi Erguner, Manu Katche, Toni Levin and many others. This is definitely a proof of the quality of his work and dedication to music. This year Vlatko formed a band called Kings of Strings with Tommy Emmanuel and Stochelo Rosenberg. Their opening concert was in Belgrade and from there they embarked on tour.

There are few features that distinguish Vlatko’s sound in the variety of music genres and that are actually the reason of his success. His music style is a fusion of rock and roll and jazz with ethno folk elements, primarily from his native Macedonia but also from other Yugoslav countries. He clings to the melodic form of the traditional folk music and spices it up with modern sound from other genres. The most interesting feature, in that respect, is certainly the so called uneven rhythm in which he keeps playing. Because of that, Vlatko is today a role model for many young guitarists who want to achieve his level of perfection in this complex rhythm. Since he is aware that he has a great impact on their lives, he is actively working with young Serbian students of Berklee College of music, trying to help them show their talent and traditional roots outside Serbian borders.

The name of this musician is a synonym for music that combines sophistication and passion. Although most of his repertoire consists of instrumentals, each composition has a story written not in words, but in his emotions and ideas. Whether it’s a new composition or it’s a remake of a traditional Macedonian folk song, Vlatko’s talent and desire are visible, almost touchable on the scene. When you come to see his performance, you can be sure that you get few hours of quality music and an artist fully committed to his performance.

Vlatko Stefanovski Jovano, Jovanke