Stories of our work
Michael Petrov

The Musicians Benevolent Fund supports talented young artists through award schemes which help them to develop their musical potential. The  Guilhermina Suggia Gift is an award for outstanding young cellists. In 2009 and 2010 it was awarded to Michael Petrov.

It was the Fund’s Suggia Gift which allowed Michael to travel to Portugal when he was nominated as the UK entrant to the competition in 2011.

Michael Petrov was born in Sofia, Bulgaria, and began to play the cello at the age of six, inspired by his parents who were both musicians. He was recently awarded a scholarship to the Guildhall School of Music and Drama where he studies with Louise Hopkins.

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"The Suggia gift is extremely important for me. It is hugely prestigious and I am proud and honoured to be its recipient."

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Michael is joining a list of major talents who have previously received the Suggia Gift, including Jacqueline Du Pré, Steven Isserlis, Robert Cohen, Raphael Wallfisch, Julian Lloyd Webber and Guy Johnston.

"The Suggia gift is extremely important for me. It is hugely prestigious and I am proud and honoured to be its recipient. It also has given me a great boost and gives me hope that I might one day make it in this hard and unforgiving occupation. The award is a tremendous financial help as living in England is very expensive for someone coming from my part of the world.”

On Friday 8 July 2011 Petrov went on to win the Suggia Prize at the Casa da Música in Porto competing against other oustanding European 'cellists. He won €10,000, the use of Suggia's Montagnana 'cello for two years and a solo performance with Orchestra at the Casa da Música. It was the Fund’s Suggia Gift which allowed Michael to travel to Portugal when he was nominated as the UK entrant to the competition.

Susan Monks, principal 'cello of BBC Symphony Orchestra who helped select Petrov to go to Portugal said "he is a remarkable and absolutely outstanding talent. Already an artist of exceptional maturity and distinction, his playing is characterised by an intense committment and passion. In essence, a Suggia prize winner of world class ability. The Fund has played a vital role in his professional development."