David Belkovski

Born in Skopje, Macedonia, David Belkovski’s musical journey began with Balkan folk traditions and has evolved into a vibrant career as conductor, soloist, and continuist. Known for his vivid programming and compelling interpretations, he has directed ensembles including Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra, Juilliard415, the New World Symphony, the Milwaukee Symphony, and Les Violons du Roy. Recent appearances at the Norfolk, Ryedale, and Aix-en-Provence festivals highlight the breadth of his artistry. This season, he joins the San Antonio Philharmonic to direct the complete Brandenburg Concertos, makes his directorial debut with the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, and returns to conduct the Juilliard School’s production of Saverio Mercadante’s I due Figaro.

Performing regularly on harpsichord, fortepiano, and modern piano, Belkovski has won first prize in several national and international competitions, including the 2019 Sfzp International Fortepiano Competition. He has served as an assistant conductor to Richard Egarr, Raphaël Pichon, and John Butt; prepared orchestras for William Christie; and held the post of Assistant Conductor with Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra.

Continuo playing remains central to his creative life, with recent collaborations including Vox Luminis, Jupiter Ensemble, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, and Trinity Baroque Orchestra. Belkovski is also active as a composer, with commissions including one for Juilliard415, and teaches courses and workshops on continuo performance and historical pedagogy at Juilliard. He is the recipient of the Robert A. and Patricia S. Levinson Award, the first in the field of early music to receive this honor.