Nikolay Kaufman

Prof. Nikolay Kaufman is a distinguished scholar and arranger of Jewish musical folklore, specializing in Ashkenazic and Sephardic traditions. Over five decades, he has meticulously documented songs from synagogues and communities, preserving both unaltered melodies and his own complex arrangements. His work bridges musicology and performance, emphasizing cultural heritage and vocal techniques. He has published extensively on Jewish musicology and contributed to Bulgarian choral traditions.

His research focuses on the interplay between religious/secular contexts, vocal ensembles (choirs, solos), and cultural influences. Notable techniques include multi-colored harmony, ornamentation, and 'instrumental' choir effects. His upcoming publication will categorize songs by ensemble, culture, and occasion. Kaufman’s arrangements often require specialized interpretation for languages like Yiddish and Ladino, using Cyrillic and Latin scripts.

Kaufman’s articles analyze historical and contemporary music, from Beethoven’s compositional methods to Bulgarian folk ensembles. He advocates for interdisciplinary approaches, linking music to drama, psychoacoustics, and education. His contributions span pedagogy (solfège, cello schools) and cultural preservation, reflecting a deep engagement with both Eastern European and global musical traditions.

• Key Projects: Arrangements of Jewish songs, hybrid cultural pieces (e.g., Mira la Mar), Bulgarian-Jewish fusion.
• Publications: Over 15 articles (2013–2015) on musicology, education, and performance.
• Legacy: Preservation of fading traditions and professional choir techniques.