Meet Iva Raykova | Violist, Educator, Arts Administrator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Iva Raykova and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Iva, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I’m originally from Sofia, Bulgaria. While my parents aren’t musicians themselves, they’ve always had a deep appreciation for classical, folk music and jazz—my father even played a bit of piano. When I was four years old, it was discovered that I had perfect pitch, and it was recommended that I pursue a formal musical education. This led me to enroll at the National Music School in my hometown. I began my studies on the piano, but eventually fell in love with the viola and its uniquely rich, deep and resonant sound. With the full support of my parents and surrounded by peers equally passionate about music and the arts, I was fortunate to grow up in an environment that nurtured and shaped my path toward becoming a professional musician.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
first arrived in the United States to pursue my studies, not anticipating the cultural shock and the challenge of adapting to life so far from my family and friends. At times, the journey felt lonely as I worked to find my path in this new place. Over the years, I completed my Master’s degree at Southern Methodist University, as well as a Bachelor’s degree and an Artist Diploma at Texas Christian University. Along the way, I had the privilege of studying with extraordinary educators who helped shape both my musicianship and the person I am today.
During the later years of my studies, I became involved with B Sharp Youth Music, a program dedicated to social change through music. That experience sparked my love for working with children and sharing my passion for music with them. It eventually led me to start a strings program for elementary students at Valor Education in Austin, and now to develop a new program at West Dallas STEM School, right in the heart of Dallas.
As a performer, I regularly appear with orchestras such as the Plano Symphony Orchestra, Irving Symphony Orchestra, Las Colinas Symphony Orchestra, and East Texas Symphony Orchestra, among others. A particularly meaningful highlight was performing Mozart’s Sinfonia Concertante as a soloist alongside violinist Tim Angel with the Mansfield Philharmonic Orchestra. Other memorable performances include sharing the stage with Michael Bublé on his Higher Tour and performing with the Eagles on their 2020 tour. Upcoming engagements I am especially excited about include joining Sarah Brightman and later the Trans-Siberian Orchestra on their tours.
For the past five years, I have also been deeply involved with the Heifetz International Music Institute, where I currently serve on the leadership team as Program Coordinator of the Junior Division. This role has been both inspiring and rewarding, as I search for young talents from around the world and help create an environment where they can connect and thrive through music during the Institute’s six-week summer session in Staunton, Virginia.
My journey has not always been easy—it has been full of challenges, surprises, and unexpected turns. Yet, after 16 years in the Dallas–Fort Worth area, I have learned the importance of a strong support system of friends, colleagues, and mentors. I’ve come to realize that success as a musician doesn’t mean choosing only one career path. I cherish the balance of performing and teaching throughout the year, while embracing leadership opportunities each summer at Heifetz. What drives me forward is the belief that with passion, creativity, and hard work, countless doors can open along the way.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
One of my favorite spots in Dallas is the Meyerson Symphony Center. From the incredible acoustics to the magnificent architecture, it is a mesmerizing space to perform or to enjoy as a listener. A local business I enjoy visiting is Celestial Beerworks , which has great beer and Mexican food . I also love having brunch at Henk’s European Deli . I

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
One of the most inspirational figures in my life has been violist Misha Galaganov, with whom I studied during my college years at Texas Christian University. He was the main reason I first came to Texas, having heard about his strong studio and reputation as a dedicated mentor and exceptional pedagogue. Under his guidance, I discovered the kind of musician I aspired to become—one who seeks performances filled with meaning and purpose, and who is committed to excellence in both artistry and study. He taught me how to look beyond the notes on the page, to interpret the composer’s intentions from the clues they left behind, and to perform with imagination while forging a genuine connection with the audience.

Website: https://ivaraykova.com

Instagram: @ivaraykovaviola

Facebook: Iva Raykova

Image Credits
Photography : Ibeth Pinzon