ABOUT

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, David has directed ensembles including Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra, Juilliard415, New World Symphony, the Milwaukee Symphony, and Les Violons du Roy. Recent appearances at the Norfolk, Ryedale, and Aix-en-Provence festivals have highlighted the breadth of his artistry. This season, he joins the San Antonio Philharmonic to direct the complete Brandenburg Concertos and returns to conduct The Juilliard School's fall opera, Mercadante’s I due Figaro.

Performing regularly on harpsichord, fortepiano, and modern piano, David has received first prize in several national and international competitions, including the 2019 Sfzp International Fortepiano Competition, earning recognition for his artistry on both historical and modern keyboards. He has built strong artistic relationships with leading figures in early music, serving as Assistant Conductor to Richard Egarr, Raphaël Pichon, and John Butt, preparing orchestras for William Christie, and as English Concert Fellow under Harry Bicket. He recently held the post of Assistant Conductor with Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra.

Continuo playing remains a vital part of David’s creative life. Recent collaborations include work with the Belgian vocal ensemble Vox Luminis, the French chamber group Jupiter Ensemble, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, and New York’s Trinity Baroque Orchestra.

Alongside international prize-winning violinist Rachell Ellen Wong, David founded Twelfth Night, a period-instrument ensemble based in New York City. Twelfth Night marked a significant milestone in 2024, making their Carnegie Hall debut with an electrifying operatic showcase featuring Julie Roset and Xenia Puskarz Thomas. Twelfth Night is currently the ensemble-in-residence for Seattle Early Music.

In addition to performing, David is also active as a composer, with commissions including one for Juilliard415. At The Juilliard School, he coaches vocalists and teaches courses and workshops on continuo performance and historical pedagogy. He is the recipient of the Robert A. and Patricia S. Levinson Award—the first awarded in the field of early music.