"Believe in yourself, trust yourself, don’t compare yourself with others, because everyone has their own destiny."
At what age did you start learning your instrument?
I started the flute at the age of 9 after hearing how my neighbor was playing. For the new year, I asked my mother to buy me a flute for me.
Who were your teachers?
In Turkey I have started with Albena Petrova and S. Stavreva, bulgarian flutists that were teaching in the "Bilkent music school", later in Moscow my mentors were Yury Dolzhikov, Maria Chepurina in the Gnesin music school and Alexander Golishev in the Tchaikovsky conservatory. Afterwards it was Philippe Bernold who influenced me to move to Europe for studies. where I studied with Pascal Feuvrier in Paris and Benoit Fromanger in Berlin.
One of the most moving moments in my life as a musician was…
It was probably when I moved to study in Berlin, where I got to know so many musicians who inspired me.
Which music do you like other than classical music?
I love jazz, but it is difficult to say one genre that I like the most, I listen to all kind of music that gives me emotions. It can be r&b, traditional, lately I really enjoy listening to Jacob Collier and Coldplay. Also I have always liked Sting.
Competitions
"Blue Bird" Competition Crimea (Age of 9), 1st prize, "Sforzando" Comeptition 2015 Kazan, Russia, 1st prize, Tatarstan-Presidential scholarship
Who or what inspiries you?
There are many things that inspire me… Diversity and beauty means a lot to me. I have been shaped by different countries, different cultures and being able to communicate, to connect through the music is something very special. But most of the time almost everything can be an inspiration: a movie, a painting or even a great food. I am inspired by women who support other women instead of competing. Also, friendships that can make you feel that you are understood, nature that has a great power, beauty, and the Pacific Quintet where we try to find always a common language.
What's your message to young musicians?
Believe in yourself, trust yourself, don’t compare yourself with others, because everyone has their own destiny. And practice. :)
What is your favourite woodwind quintet piece?
J. Françaix - Quintet Nr. 1
If I wouldn't be a musician, I would be a…
Diplomat or maybe an actress.
