Irina Bokova awarded Theodosii Spassov UNESCO Artist for Peace
16 September 2015 News
Today, witnessing the looming intolerance, the destruction of cultural heritage and the xenophobia, through your music the message of peace is strongly heard,” said UNESCO Director General Irina Bokova when awarding the Bulgarian musician Theodosii Spassov UNESCO Artist for Peace for 2015-2017.
Theodosii Spassov received the award for his dedication and engagement with the ideas and ideals of UNESCO. He is the first Bulgarian to become member of the family of the UNESCO Artists for Peace. Spassov joins internationally renowned personalities such as the American artists Herbie Hancock and Marcus Miller, the Russian pianist Sergei Markarov, Cameroonian musician Manu Dibango jazz, Gilberto Gil and others.
During the ceremony, Irina Bokova pointed the innovation of the musician in creating unique music style. She underscored his virtuoso performances on stage and emphasized his dedication to the power of music as a force to enhance dialogue among people, cultures and societies. "At UNESCO we strive to make the world more tolerant, to protect human rights and to understand different cultures. As you have once said, the music is a bridge to the souls and dreams of all people," Bokova said.
"You believe in art, you believe that you can make the world a better place and it is seen in your music," she said, expressing hope that Spassov will spread the message of UNESCO for peace, understanding and tolerance. "More than ever we need to rely on culture, because there is nothing more powerful than that. If everything else is gone, the culture - our identity - remains," said Irina Bokova.
Theodosii Spassov expressed gratitude for the award, saying that he would devote his lifetime to the ideas of UNESCO. "It is an honor to accept the award UNESCO Artist for Peace and I will continue with my work, because I believe that music, in all its dimensions, as well as the creativity of the artists are very close and naturally connected with peace and understanding," said the Bulgarian artist.