Celebrating Nicolae Botgros: Moldova’s folklore icon turns 72
This milestone presents an opportunity for his many admirers to express their admiration and gratitude for his artistic mastery, his promotion of authentic musical folklore, and the spiritual joy he brings to audiences both at home and around the world.
Flowers, embraces, and words of gratitude and admiration were offered to the distinguished artist Nicolae Botgros, who celebrated his birthday surrounded by the Lăutari family and other admirers.
"The most talented conductor I know, with a big heart, and that's why we love him, respect him, and wish him good health!" said violinist Igor Buzurniuc.
"It would be wonderful if this day were designated as National Folklore Day, in honor of Maestro Nicolae Botgros, as he truly deserves a national celebration," said Ion Paladi, People's Artist.
"I feel blessed to have received such support, and I was able to record several songs and perform in shows," said Mariana Dobzeu, a folk singer.
"With Nicolae Botgros, success is assured. Maestro Botgros is not just a great artist and professional, but a true guardian of Romanian folklore, who knows how to honor our national identity, culture, and our most cherished possession: our national folklore," said Ilie Carași, a singer from Bucharest.
"The way Nicolae Botgros works in rehearsals and at concerts is not just admirable, it’s something that should be noted by all generations. The music of Lăutari, Maestro Botgros’ music, represents the past, present, and future, and we should be proud and blessed to have him," said Andrei Locoman, director of Moldova-Concert.
"Today is a day of great joy, celebrating the anniversary of Maestro Nicolae Botgros. We love and appreciate him. All his friends are here, and we are united. We are certainly looking forward to an extraordinary period in which the Lăutari will have the chance to delight us with their royal concerts," said the Minister of Culture, Sergiu Prodan.
At each anniversary, Maestro Nicolae Botgros recalls the memory of his father, who was his first music teacher.
"My father would tell everyone that I would become a great artist. What he saw in me—I don’t even know. I was just a child beating the drum," shared the maestro.
Decades have passed since he played at weddings and christenings in the south of Moldova, alongside his father and other lăutari. For 47 years, Nicolae Botgros has led the National Lăutarii Orchestra.
"What I wish for myself is for every artist who steps on stage to experience what we, the Lăutarii Orchestra, Nicolae Botgros, and the entire team, have gone through. The triumphs we’ve had, the grand performances, are great responsibilities in front of the audience. My years have passed, but not in vain; they’ve passed through triumphs, performances, flowers, applause, and all these things belong to an artist," said Nicolae Botgros.
Rehearsals, concerts, and tours continue in 2025. Nicolae Botgros and the Lăutari have several performances scheduled in the Republic of Moldova, Romania, and various European capitals.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
