My teachers were all the way from Sanc, Petersburg which was in Leningrad. They were very famous teachers; for example, Shinkarenko and Golovnya (a husband and wife team, unfortunately already passed away) were both very influential. Shinkarenko taught at Anspirantura and Golovnya was his student after conservatory at the highest level one can achieve in the musical world.

They were indeed, extraordinary musicians with some of the top piano techniques one can find! My first teacher, however, was my father (although my mom, even though she did not play any instrument, had an excellent ear and always was sat alongside of me while I was practicing my piano). I started singing and playing piano at the age of five. My dad had to get me ready to attend a special music school where Golovnya was a director and her husband Shinkarenko (who was her teacher in Anspirantura) was also teaching. I had my specialty with them three times per week and the rest of the days had Solfegio, music literature, and voice lessons—a full course to be sure! In order to get into their class I needed to pass an exam where, although there involving fifty people, could only accept ten students. I passed the exam and was accepted—how exciting! I then went to a music college and the Music Institute, taking evening classes. I also took lessons with great musicians like Yakimovich, Basia, James, Chestnut and other world famous figures in the musical world.

I was trained as a classical pianist, however, the love for jazz, pop, rock and R&B was strong enough to capture my attention, at least for a while. In fact, I almost quit piano and voice and was ready to become physicist; but Jazz and other styles saved my love for piano and voice, rekindling my pursuit of a musical career. My mom played a major roll as she encouraged me to persevere for the sake of my father and grandmother—continuing their legacy in the next generation. As a result, I strongly believe in a fresh balance of mixing the different styles together; then, even classical music can be absolutely fun and exciting!

Of course: Czerny, Mashkovsky and scales, warm ups are also very important in becoming a great musician. Starting from the Baroque era, Classical, Romantic and Contemporary, there are several breathtaking pieces which will undoubtedly leave you speechless! I believe that it is very important to give students the opportunity to choose the piece and style they wish to play—rather than force one upon them. In this way will likely practice more diligently and feel more in charge of their own musical exploration. They'll avoid the critical moments of rebellion that I underwent as a child!

Music is extremely important to me and I love to share this priceless gift with others, passing it on to the next generations. What I teach is simply what my grandmother, my dad and my teachers have told me in time past. And, of course, practice will make it perfect—that's why I had to mention the story of my childhood to give you an idea what your children really need just to be able to enjoy and have fun with music! This is paramount for me; at the end of my day I can say, "Yes, she or he was smiling today. That means they liked what they picked"—after all, I can only suggest and help them shape and frame there fine talents!

I really look forward to meeting more of you and developing a wonderful relationship in the years to come as a teacher, and student, and friend. : )

Thank you so much for taking time to read this testimonial of my life.