Today we’d like to introduce you to Kamilya Akhmetova.
Kamilya, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I played piano since I was 7 and decided to make it my profession. After the Bachelor’s in Piano Performance in Astana, Kazakhstan, I continued my education and received my Master’s in Organ Performance, and now I am finishing my Master’s in Piano Performance and Pedagogy, both at SMU in Dallas.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It seems like not a big deal now, but there was a struggle on every level. The good thing I have developed (or naturally have) positive thinking, so that helps. First of all, choosing a classical music career in a developing country would not be considered as the wisest choice, especially financially. Secondly, my hands are not very big for a pianist, my teachers and I had to come up with some adjustments in repertoire or find tricks to be able to play some pieces. During the second year, I was preparing for a competition and overplayed my left hand. It’s been 10 years but still, when I have a busy period and need to practice a lot of music, my 4th finger, and overall, my arm hurts. I even had to go to physical therapy. Thirdly, coming to the US was a big financial and moral challenge. There are a lot of fees, visa, university tuition fees that I had to pay, and as a musician I also had to prepare a video recording of my playing. Wow, now that I think about it, there were even more challenges, but I made it and that’s all that matters.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a professional classical pianist, organist, and a teacher. I am finishing my second Master’s, so technically still a student. However, besides the school, I teach piano to students of different levels from kids to adults. I play organ and piano at church every Sunday. I also play for the ballet company. Hard to tell, what sets me apart. I am proud when my students do well in recitals and competitions. I am glad that people enjoy my playing during the service. I enjoy to collaborate with different musicians and performers.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Success is when you realize your inner potential, materially comfortable, and have close people to share it with.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akhmetova_kamilya
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kamilya-akhmetova-1678a3273/
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@kamilya_akhmetova
Image Credits
https://www.instagram.com/olga.anderson.photography (first 2 professional photos)
The rest is mine
