Spending her life in Macedonia, Elena Petreska is well versed in many of its historical points. Impressive? Very much so. She was able to tell us about her homeland while also sharing a bit about her time away from music this year while on maternity leave. Soon after she released “Believe” in July. Next up she’ll be at Makfest, and well, we’ll let her tell you the rest.

Kendra: Have you lived in Macedonia your whole life?

Elena Petreska: Yes, Macedonia is a small and beautiful country located on the Balkan peninsula and is part of the former Yugoslavia. I was born in Prilep, which is the third largest city in Macedonia, and I lived and worked in Skopje, which is the capital.

Kendra: Since you began your career, have you gotten to travel to perform? If so, where has been your favorite place?

Elena: Of course, I have performed in many European countries. My favorite country is Italy, I do not know, perhaps because it’s because of classical music, the art, perfect architecture, the fashion. Every part has its own history. Italy is definitely the state of my soul.

Kendra: Why did you get into music?

Elena: After I realized for myself I could sing, I started to perform at children’s festivals, as a solo singer, in a children’s choir. Then I studied at a secondary music school, then a music academy. I also work in the Macedonian Opera and ballet as a singer. My entire life is filled with music once I know about myself.

Kendra: Is there a favorite part of Macedonian history that you’re fond of that you can share with us real quick?

Elena: Macedonia has an interesting and rich history, as well as ancient history with Alexander of Macedon known throughout the world. But as an interesting fact, I would separate the city of Ohrid, known as the Balkan Jerusalem. There are 365 churches, one church for every day.

Ohrid is known as a city of the light, after its old name Lihnidos. History tells us that Ohrid is an Episcopal center in ancient times. Ohrid Lake, the largest and most important natural lake in Macedonia, the oldest in Europe and, from a biological point of view, the most important stagnant water ecosystem of the continent. It is characterized by rich history, culture, archaeological sites and natural beauty. Thanks to these characteristics, in 1980, the Ohrid Lake and the city of Ohrid was declared a World Heritage Site, under the protection of UNESCO.

Kendra: Lastly, what’s going on with you in terms of music in the next couple of months?

Elena: Later in October I will perform at one of my new songs at one of the most famous festivals in MK, Makfest, the song is called “Something More,” and the authors are the famous Swedish duo sisters Ylva & Linda Person.