Iliya Draganov graduated from the State Academy of Music majoring in Violoncello (1933). He studied composition with Professor Parashkev Hadjiev. He also studied Economic Sciences at the Free University and graduated in 1935. He was member of the Royal Military Symphony Orchestra (which later became the Sofia Philharmonic) and the Sofia Opera.

He wrote instrumental works; over 250 choral, solo and pop songs.

For symphony orchestra:
Violoncello Concerto (1961).

Chamber Music:
String Quartet;
Piano Trio.