The Bellwether, April 1, 2023

Tell us a bit about yourself and how your artistic journey started. My journey started at a very young age. When I was 5 years old, I started playing piano. My mom and dad would also sing to me and play a variety of music, so I was always surrounded by music in some way. Once I began to play piano, I developed a deeper understanding of music and theory. I also took violin lessons for a time. But deep in my heart I knew I wanted to be a singer. Even though I was still very shy, at age 18 I decided to take voice lessons. Then, when I was 20, I joined a theater company and performed in different productions. Being surrounded by like-minded people - singing, acting, and dancing was very motivating. This experience taught me a lot about collaboration and about the art of storytelling through music.

What challenges have you encountered as an artist?

of the world, and various age groups as well. It’s a very broad, global audience. But we don't see a lot of Pop singers singing in different languages. At least for now, that may change in the future. I think that window has opened up more and more in the past few years. I think of singers like Dimash Qudaibergen, who is really bringing attention to different languages and countries, makes Pop music more appealing to an international audience. How do you feel about being a global entertainer? What does that mean to you? I've always been fascinated with foreign cultures and languages. So, for me, singing in other languages is a way of learning and connecting with people, from different parts of the world. I find that fascinating and beautiful - to be able to communicate with others; and the power of music alone, is that even if you don't speak the same language, it moves everyone the same and everyone can connect to it. Thinking of this from my personal perspective, what music does in my own life – it creates a sense of safety, joy, inspiration, and it’s also very healing. Music has always been there for me whether I’m going through something sad, or something joyous, it's that constant companion for me. I know many people feel the same way, and this gift of singing is not something I take for granted. It is a gift God has given me that’s meant to be shared with the world.

I think the biggest challenge - and many artists deal with this, is getting out of your own way. And there's always what they call “imposter syndrome” because we tend to criticize ourselves and have self- doubts. Also, comparing yourself to others and finding your own voice can be challenging.

ENTER TAIN You may be feeling “less than” at certain times, but you should not allow that to stop you. You need to realize that you’re human, you’re not perfect, and just continue working on and improving what you do until your reach your artistic goals. You will be touching the people who are meant to be touched by your music at a specific time in their lives. What do you think has been the key to your success?

Honestly, it's quite simple. Just keep going. Even if you get sidetracked, don’t give up, stay focused, and eventually, you will accomplish your dreams. What are your hobbies, what do you enjoy doing most in your free time? I love meeting new people from different cultures and learning about them. I love photography and spending time outdoors. There’s something very inspiring for me to be in wide open spaces, along the coast, in the country. I also love watching movies. One of my dreams is to write for and perform movie soundtracks.

What is your music style?

I would say it's a blend of many things, because I am influenced by different artists. But my particular style can be considered classical pop or classical crossover, similar to Josh Groban’s music style, for example, because his music is not purely classical, and it's not purely pop. It’s a blend of the two. And, of course, singing in other languages - like Spanish, Italian, and French, is a big part of my style.

Who is your audience?

My audience reaches so many parts

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