Diko Iliev (1898 - 1984)

Diko Iliev - composer, conductor, a sui generis talent, a unique phenomenon in Bulgarian culture was born on 15.02.1898 (old style) in the village of Karlukovo, District of Lukovit. He is a curious and impressionable child, but because his family is poor, manages to finish only the fourth grade. His love of music is revealed early, which is why when he is only 13, in 1911, his parents send him to study music at the military brass orchestra in Oriahovo. During World War I he fights in the ranks of 16th Lovech regiment in the composition of I Bulgarian Army and takes part in the battles on the Seret front. It is there, at the time of fraternization of Bulgarian and Russian troops, that he composes the Iskar Horo, his first attempt at composing, which specialists appreciate highly. In the summer of 1931, when his daughter, Alexandriyka, is already 10 years old, Diko Iliev moves to Oriahovo together with his family. In the same year a military brass orchestra is established in the town, in which the composer plays the baritone. One of the most active periods of his professional life has started. Exceptionally beneficial for his professional development is the influence of conductor Alexandar Veyner. In 1932 the horo compositions "Mig-zag", "Peasants' Sighs", "May Flowers", "Spring Revival", "Oriahovo Idyll", "Varna Horo" and others appear. "Danube Horo" follows, the composition for which Bulgaria learns the name of Diko Iliev. In 1947 he is granted an officer’s rank and is appointed conductor of the military orchestra of the town. (Source: http://cchh-oriahovo.com)