JURY MEMBER
VELJKO KLENKOVSKI
Born in the vibrant city of Pančevo in 1975, Veljko’s musical odyssey began with a symphony of determination and talent.
From the prestigious Kornelije Stanković High School of Music in Belgrade to the illustrious halls of the Georges Bizet Conservatory in Paris, Veljko’s pursuit of musical mastery knew no bounds. Graduating with top honors from CNR Paris and enriched by his time at the Ecole Normale, he continued his melodic voyage, earning a master’s degree from the Academy of Arts in Novi Sad in 2008, and a PhD from the Faculty of Music in Belgrade in 2015, a feat celebrated with the Bruno Brun award.
Veljko’s virtuosity has been acclaimed on international stages, adorned with laurels from competitions spanning continents. From triumphs at the Leopold Belan International Competition in Paris to commanding performances with esteemed orchestras like the Royal Orchestra from Brussels and the Philharmonics of Nations from Germany, Veljko’s clarinet melodies have captivated audiences worldwide.
His musical wanderlust has taken him to concert halls across the globe, from the grandeur of Europe to the enchanting rhythms of Asia, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of listeners. As the first clarinetist of the Belgrade Philharmonics and a fixture in esteemed ensembles like the Gradilište Contemporary Music Ensemble, Veljko continues to orchestrate enchanting symphonies that transcend borders.
Beyond the spotlight, Veljko’s passion extends to nurturing the next generation of musical prodigies. Through master classes and as a revered member of competition juries, he shares his expertise generously, leaving an enduring legacy in the realm of music education.
Whether performing solo, weaving harmonies in chamber ensembles, or sculpting young talents, Veljko Klenkovski embodies the essence of musical brilliance. With his trusted Buffet Crampon Legende clarinets, he continues to play melodies that resonate with the soul, enriching the world with the timeless language of music.