Milena Kłopocka
About
I am a professional musician and anthropologist with a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Music Stage Directing and a Master's degree in Ethnology and Cultural Anthropology. I have also specialised in Opera Dramaturgy and Music Analysis. My work focuses on the intersection of music, culture and history, combining academic research with practical application.
I have experience in music education, dramaturgy and cultural research, working in both academic and professional settings. My background includes teaching music history and analysis, collaborating on opera productions, and conducting ethnographic studies of cultural traditions. I offer individual and group tuition in music history, analysis and dramaturgy, tailoring my approach to the needs of students and professionals. My aim is to provide structured and insightful guidance that enhances understanding and appreciation of music in its historical and cultural context.
Teaching Style
As a professional musician and anthropologist with a passion for both the historical and analytical dimensions of music, I offer a unique perspective to students wishing to deepen their understanding of music's rich heritage and intricate structures. With an academic foundation and extensive practical experience, I specialise in creating engaging and insightful learning experiences tailored to each student's needs.
What I offer:
- Individual tuition: Fully tailored sessions designed to meet your specific interests and goals, whether you're interested in the evolution of musical styles, exploring cultural influences or mastering analytical techniques.
- Group lessons in an online classroom: Collaborative and dynamic learning environments where students can exchange ideas and learn from each other as they explore the fascinating world of music.
From the development of Western classical music to contemporary trends, from analysing scores to understanding the socio-cultural contexts of musical traditions, my lessons bridge history, theory and practice.
Credentials & Affiliations
EDUCATION
Master in Ethnology and Cultural Anthropology, Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski", Sofia
2019-2025
Specialization in Opera Dramaturgy and Music Analysis, National Academy of Music "Prof. Pancho Vladigerov", Sofia
2016 — 2018
Master in Music Stage Directing, National Academy of Music "Prof. Pancho Vladigerov", Sofia
2015 — 2016
Bachelor in Music Stage Directing, National Academy of Music "Prof. Pancho Vladigerov", Sofia
2011 — 2015
Slavic Philology, Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski", Sofia
2010 — 2011
Employment History
Opera Dramaturg, Freelance
2023-Present
Provides dramaturgical support for opera productions, including script analysis, historical research, and artistic consultation. Works with directors, singers, and conductors to enhance character development, thematic interpretation, and overall stage vision.
Music History and Analysis Tutor, Freelance
2023-Present
Teaches music history and analysis to individual students and groups. Develops tailored lessons covering the development of musical styles, cultural influences and analytical techniques. Creates engaging learning environments that bridge history, theory and practice.
Principal Librarian at Sofia National Opera and Ballet, Sofia
2022-2023
Responsible for copyright tracking, which includes writing reports to relevant institutions, contacting authors and heirs, concluding contracts and agreements. Maintains contact with publishers and is responsible for ordering sheet music. Receives and processes donations. Maintains and updates the library collection.
Principal Archivist, Sofia National Opera and Ballet, Sofia
2019 — 2023
Responsible for the archive of the theatre, which includes documents, photographs, theatre programmes, manuscripts, sheet music, set and costume designs, posters, etc. from the period 1890 - 2022. Maintains the order and condition of the documents, digitises images, collects and describes information on the history of the Opera House. Carries out expert appraisals of archived material and files new material. Accepts donations to the archive fund, responds to enquiries and provides materials for archive visitors, collaborates with institutions. Organises various events and press conferences. Creates an archive column on social media.
Teacher, National Music School Liubomir Pipkov, Sofia
2019-2021
Тaught students in the final year of the vocal department, specialising in opera singing.
Designed and delivered a specialised course in opera dramaturgy for final-year vocal students. The curriculum focused on the relationship between music, text and staging, helping young opera singers to develop a deeper understanding of librettos, character interpretation and dramatic expression. Lessons combined historical context, analytical techniques and performance insights, equipping students with essential dramaturgical tools to enhance their artistic interpretation. The course aimed to bridge musical analysis and stage performance, preparing students for further study and professional careers in opera.
Dramaturg, Sofia National Opera and Ballet, Sofia
2018-2019
Wrote and compiled theatre programmes for opera and ballet performances, posters and other promotional materials. Wrote and edited texts for social networks and the Opera's website. Launched the project "Conversations about the Opera". Organised various public events ("International Day of Opera", "Night of the Theatres", "Cultural Heritage Day", tourist tours) and press conferences.
Radio host/Music editor, Bulgarian National radio, Sofia
2017-2021
Performed all pre-production work and recording for the broadcasts: script writing, music selection, interviews, sound editing, studio recording. Created editions of several different shows, as well as the original show "Music Legends". Presented live broadcasts of concerts from Bulgaria Hall and the Opera on Saturday Night show. Wrote original announcements and publications for the BNR website.