We were lucky to catch up with Aglaya Shadrina recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Aglaya, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
Propose. I love this word, and I honestly cannot imagine a human life without it. I’ve always loved making a difference. When I was little and started playing the piano, I immediately thought, ‘How great would it be if every person played the piano?’ What a relief, happiness, and joy not only listening but actually creating and playing music brings. One of the first dreams I had was to spread love for music and teach as many people as I can in my lifetime. As an adult, I see and acknowledge even broader and greater benefits of playing the piano, singing, dancing, and exploring art. To list a few benefits: It sparks your creativity, reduces stress, brings you to the present moment, helps your brain to continue developing, and even prevents Alzheimer’s disease. My youngest student is only 4 years old, and my oldest student is 75. At some point, I realized that I can reach a broader audience and give the gift of music to far more people than I can teach in a day. So, I started creating fun piano courses that have been enjoyed by many. I’ve created a course that allows absolutely every person to start writing their own music. Isn’t it a miracle?! So my purpose is to share magic and spread love for music and creativity.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
My name is Aglaya Shadrina, and I am the founder of Aglaya Piano. I work as a creative piano instructor, vocal coach, and art therapist. I began learning the piano at a young age with a dream of sharing my passion for music and creativity. I’ve always believed that the learning process can and should be enjoyable, so I’ve continued on this path.
Today, I offer one-on-one piano lessons, online group music theory sessions, art therapy, and composition meetups. I also develop music and piano courses, allowing me to share the gift of music with a wider audience. Currently, I’m working on a children’s piano book and an engaging course for young beginners, both of which I’m excited to share soon.
Learning music can be truly transformative, and I am dedicated to making the process enjoyable and joyful. I am committed to encouraging and supporting my students as they embark on their musical journey, recognizing that learning something new can be intimidating and requires patience. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to inspire more people to start their learning journey, believing in themselves, regardless of their age. They can explore various aspects of music, including reading, composing, playing by ear, and performing their favorite songs
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
If you were to ask me about the most important qualities to develop in every aspect of life, not just in day-to-day business operations, I’d say, for me, it’s curiosity, persistence, and listening to your heart and intuition throughout the process.
I’ve been running my business since 2013, and it’s been an amazing journey. I’ve learned that it’s essential to continually learn, stay curious, and evolve as an educator to provide the best learning experience and ensure that my students genuinely enjoy the process. In both music instruction and entrepreneurship, prioritizing the needs and satisfaction of your customers is paramount. Listen to feedback, make improvements based on their input, and prioritize their overall experience.
The journey of an entrepreneur is often filled with ups and downs. Just as you’ve persevered in your career, develop resilience to weather setbacks and failures. Understand that challenges are opportunities for growth and learning.
I’ve also learned that it’s crucial to adapt and adjust to the rapidly changing world. I’ve expanded my offerings to include various music-related services and courses. Consider diversifying your business offerings; this can help you reach a broader audience and reduce the risks associated with relying solely on one revenue stream.
Remember that entrepreneurship, like music, is a journey that involves continuous learning and growth. Your unique experiences can serve as a valuable foundation for success in the world of business. Stay true to your passion, stay resilient, and keep exploring new avenues for growth and impact
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I am immensely grateful for the power of the internet and social media. It’s amazing how, when used thoughtfully and purposefully, it can become a remarkable tool for connecting with individuals and organizations that we might never have the chance to meet otherwise.
Through social media, I’ve had the privilege of connecting with fellow colleagues, reaching out to new students from all corners of the world for private lessons, group sessions, and specialized courses. It’s also provided a platform for me to collaborate with brands and companies that share the same values and philosophies as my own business.
If you’re interested in connecting, collaborating, or simply want to learn more about what I do, you can find me on Instagram at @aglayapiano. Feel free to reach out via email at aglayapiano@gmail.com. I’m genuinely excited to hear from you and explore the possibilities of working together!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.aglayapiano.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aglayapiano/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AglayaPiano/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aglayashadrina/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/AglayaPiano
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@aglayapiano
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/aglaya-piano-miami
- Threads: https://www.threads.net/@aglayapiano
Image Credits
Image Credits: Aglaya Shadrina
